In Vitro Drug-Induced Spoliation of a Keratoprosthetic Hydrogel

Abstract

The study appears to confirm our earlier clinical observations that topical medication may play a role in the spoliation of the hydrogel ophthalmic devices. Presence of calcium in the deposits seems to be correlated to the nature of drug. Although the incidence of spoliation in real clinical situations is much lower than suggested by this extreme-case in vitro simulation, topical therapy after implantation of AlphaCor should be carefully considered, kept to the minimum required, and additive-free where possible.

AlphaCor artificial cornea: clinical outcome

“…[5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20] Several complications, associations, and risk factors have been identified. [21][22][23][24][25] The indications and surgical techniques have been evolving with experience. 26,27 This study aims to evaluate the long-term results, the main complications, and risk factors of AlphaCor implantations.…”

Histology of AlphaCor Skirts

“…The risk and protective 15,16,18,21,22 factors for clinical complications seen with AlphaCor devices have been discussed previously. The clinical trial was a period of learning and protocol development as these factors became understood, resulting in falling complication rates 17 subsequently.…”

AlphaCor Keratoprosthesis

“…4 Also, the indefinite use of medroxyprogesterone (MPG) is recommended after AlphaCor implantation to prevent stromal melts. 2,[4][5][6]9 Major complications with the AlphaCor implant occur because of exposure of the plastic implant to the exterior of the eye and breakdown of the interface between the implant and the surrounding tissue on the external surface of the eye. [4][5][6]9 Because the second-stage procedure exposes the soft implant material to the exterior of the eye, avoiding stage 2 may decrease complications associated with the AlphaCor implant and decrease the maintenance and follow-up required for patients.…”