A Combined Technique for Surgical Repair of Descemet’s Membrane Detachments

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Descemet’s membrane detachments are an uncommon complication after cataract surgery that can result in severe visual loss. A combined technique of intracameral gas injection and transcorneal suturing for the repair of Descemet’s membrane detachments is described. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this interventional case series, four cases of Descemet’s membrane detachments with associated corneal edema observed following cataract surgery were successfully repaired using a combined technique of intracameral gas injection and transcorneal suturing. RESULTS In all cases, Descemet’s membranes were successfully reattached using the aforementioned technique. In three cases, the associated corneal edema resolved postoperatively. In the fourth case, the patient required a penetrating keratoplasty for persistent corneal edema despite immediate anatomical success following reattachment. CONCLUSIONS Combined intracameral gas and transcorneal suturing appears to be an effective technique in the repair of Descemet’s membrane detachments. Early intervention may prevent persistent or recurrent corneal edema. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2006;37:291-297.] AUTHORS From the Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio. Accepted for publication March 8, 2006. Presented in part at the World Cornea Congress V, Washington, DC, April 13-15, 2005. Address reprint requests to Bennie H. Jeng, MD, Cole Eye Institute, I-32, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195.