Fyodorov–Zuev keratoprosthesis implantation: long-term results in patients with multiple failed corneal grafts

Background The long term results of the Fyodorov–Zuev keratoprosthesis are presented for ten patients with repeated graft failures. Methods The study took place at Dr Khodadoust Eye Hospital. The Fyodorov–Zuev keratoprosthesis was implanted in ten patients with repeated graft failures, including seven patients with old trachoma, two patients with chemical injury, and a patient with thermal injury. The outcome measures were visual acuity, retention, and complications of the keratoprosthesis. Results Preoperative best-uncorrected visual acuity (BUVA) ranged from counting fingers to light perception (median: light perception). The keratoprosthesis dramatically improved vision in most patients. Patients retained BUVA of 20/200–20/50 in 50%, 20/60–20/100 in 30%, 20/200 in 10% and 20/400 in 10%. Overall, 90% had 1 year postoperative vision of 20/200 or better. 70% of cases had BUVA of 20/200 or better at the last follow-up (average 52 months). Of ten keratoprosthesis implanted, three have been removed, and as a result, retention rate was 70% during average follow-up of 52 months .The most common postoperative complications were retroprosthetic membrane formation (40%), uveitis (20%), glaucoma (20%), tissue overgrowth (20%), early leakage (20%), late leakage (20%), aseptic necrosis (20%), retinal detachment (10%), endophthalmitis (10%), and granulation tissue growth (10%). Conclusions Fyodorov–Zuev keratoprosthesis is an effective means of managing repeated corneal graft failure.