Long-Term Functional and Anatomical Outcome after Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty: A Prospective Single-Center Study

Purpose: To investigate the long-term anatomical and functional outcomes of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK).

Methods: Prospective follow-up of 114 eyes (95 subjects) after DSAEK for endothelial dysfunction. Measurements included best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), straylight, endothelial cell density (ECD), and graft thickness.

Results: The mean follow-up time was 5.1 ± 1.5 years. Four grafts ultimately failed (after 5 to 7 years). From baseline up to 1 year after DSAEK, mean BSCVA improved by 0.30 logMAR. This beneficial effect remained until the last follow-up (LFU). After DSAEK, straylight was reduced. ECD sharply dropped by 900 cells/mm2 (33%) immediately after surgery and, thereafter, steadily decreased at a rate of 11 cells/mm2 per month. No significant correlation was observed between graft thickness at 3 years and BSCVA.

Conclusions: We observed a low graft failure rate and a normalization of graft thickness. Postoperative straylight remained elevated relative to the normal population. The sharp initial and the subsequent more gradual ECD decline are consistent with other studies. A significant and prolonged functional gain can be achieved by posterior lamellar grafting for endothelial dysfunction.