CorNeat KPro: Ocular Implantation Study in Rabbits

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate surgical feasibility and long-term integration of the CorNeat Keratoprosthesis (KPro), a novel synthetic cornea, in rabbits. Methods: The CorNeat KPro is a synthetic corneal implant designed to treat corneal blindness by using a polymeric scaffold for biointegration, consequently assimilating synthetic optics within ocular tissues. Eight New Zealand White rabbits were implanted unilaterally with the CorNeat KPro and observed for 6 months. Animals were regularly monitored by a certified ophthalmologist using slit-lamp biomicroscopy. One animal developed postoperative endophthalmitis and was removed from the study 7 weeks postsurgery. At termination, eyes were enucleated and evaluated histologically to assess local tissue integration and inflammatory response. Results: The surgical procedure was found feasible. The CorNeat KPro integrated into all operated eyes, resulting in a retention rate of 87.5% at the conclusion of the 6-month follow-up period. We observed minimal-to-mild conjunctival and iridial congestion and did not find additional inflammatory indicators, such as anterior chamber fibrin, flare, or cells. The optical element of the device remained clear with zero incidence of retroprosthetic membrane formation. Histopathological evaluation revealed comparable tissue and cellular reaction in all eyes, consisting of the presence of fibroblasts and associated collagen fibrils within the device's skirt component. Some eyes showed a mild foreign body reaction surrounding the skirt. Conclusions: Clinical and histological findings indicate the integration of the implanted device into the surrounding tissue, evident by the retention rate and the diffuse infiltration of fibroblasts with collagen deposition among the device's fibrils. These data hold promise for clinical application in humans.

Corneal power values for use with keratoprostheses and intraocular lenses

“…Figure illustrates a ‘thick KPro’ optic, also made from PMMA. This is broadly similar to the concept from CorNeat (CorNeat, corneat.com), 8,9 where there is a groove around the periphery that is used to hold the device in a circular trephinated region of the cornea, which is intended to both centre it and create a watertight seal. There is also an anterior peripheral flexible skirt (not shown) that is implanted under the conjunctiva to provide long term integration with the eye.…”

“…However, visual acuity results that are reported for a KPro are often only ‘best corrected’ values, and the actual refractive errors are rarely included in published reports. Recent work on a new KPro 8,9 that has different optical properties to the Boston device raised questions about how the power of a KPro could be specified, as well as how to combine a KPro with an intraocular lens (IOL) to achieve a targeted refractive result. These topics will be discussed here.…”

Remote Surgeon Virtual Presence: A Novel Telementoring Method for Live Surgical Training

“…A Remote Surgeon Virtual Presence (RSVP) solution was used in a surgical wet laboratory setting (Kensington Eye Institute, Toronto, Canada) where a novel keratoprosthesis (CorNeat KPro; CorNeat Vision, Israel) was implanted into cadaver donor eyes. 12 , 13 The CorNeat device was deliberately chosen to avoid bias from previous surgical experience because none of the learner surgeons had previously used this device. Hence, this provides a more robust way of assessing the educational platform of this system.…”

A Review of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency

“…The use of stems cells obtained from sources other than the LESC is another interesting avenue being explored in the management of LSCD. Of these, limbal mesenchymal stem cells have been best studied and have an established role in corneal wound healing, scar remodeling and angiogenesis ( 124 – 127 ). Its role as a therapeutic option for LSCD is being investigated with a recent clinical trial suggesting that they are as efficacious as CLET in restoring a stable ocular surface ( 128 ).…”