[Complications of DMEKeratoplasty: Avoid, Recognize and Treat]

Abstract

Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) has evolved into a routine surgical procedure for posterior lamellar keratoplasty. After its introduction more than 10 years ago, several modifications in grafting technique and postoperative treatment regimen helped to improve its safety and reproducibility. Although DMEK offers faster and better improvements in visual acuity, as well as less graft rejections when compared to Descemet's stripping (automated) endothelial keratoplasty (DS[A]EK), difficulties when implementing this technique hamper the widespread use in many areas. However, different strategies help to reduce the rate of intra- and postoperative complications, making DMEK the method of choice for most patients with corneal endothelial diseases. Certain techniques help to reduce the endothelial damage during graft preparation; correct matching of donor age and recipient's anterior chamber depth eases intracameral unfolding of the DMEK graft, the use of SF₆ gas for anterior chamber tamponade reduces the need for additional rebubblings, and the correct frequency and duration of postoperative topical steroid treatment helps to reduce the development of cystoid macular edema and graft rejections. Further standardization, but also individualization, of DMEK helps to offer this treatment option to patients with more complex anterior segment situations like anterior synechia, larger iris defects and glaucoma drainage devices.