DR. PREETHI B

DR. KIRAN KUMAR, Dr. SURESH BABU G.

Abstract

Purpose:To evaluate the outcomes of DALK in children and adolescents at a tertiary eye care centre in India.Methods:Cross sectional study of cases of advanced KC under the age group of 18 years ,operated for DALK at a tertiary eye care centre in south India were evaluated from January 2017 to January 2022,outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity(BCVA), graft clarity at final follow up and complications.Results:Of 27 eyes of 25 children mean age group of presentation was 14.9 years.Stromal dissection technique,big Bubble was attempted in 23 eyes and achieved in 20 eyes.Final BCVA varied from 0.1 to 0.6 logmar units.21 eyes had excellent graft clarity at final follow up.Complications noted were micro perforation in 4 cases, 3 suture related and 1 case had graft rejection.Conclusion: DALK in pediatric age group for advanced KC is an effective treatment option.The lower risk of graft rejection is a definite advantage of the procedure despite the suture related complications.

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