Clinical outcomes and significance of postoperative ultrasound biomicroscopy in patients with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis

Abstract

| Purpose: To determine the clinical outcomes in patients after type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis surgery and the significance of ultrasound biomicroscopy imaging for postoperative follow-up. Methods: This retrospective analysis included 20 eyes of 19 patients who underwent corneal transplantation with type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis between April 2014 and December 2021. Data on patient demographics, preoperative diagnosis, visual acuity, and postoperative clinical findings were analyzed. Results: Type 1 Boston keratoprosthesis implantation resulted in intermediate- and long-term positive outcomes. However, blindness and other serious complications such as glaucoma, retroprosthetic membrane formation, endophthalmitis, or retinal detachment also occurred. The use of ultrasound biomicroscopy imaging allowed for better evaluation of the back of the titanium plate, anterior segment structures, and the relationship of the prosthesis with surrounding tissues, which provided valuable postoperative information. Conclusion: Regular lifetime monitoring and treatment are necessary in patients who undergo Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis implantation for high-risk corneal transplantation. ultrasound biomicroscopy imaging can be a valuable imaging technique for the evaluation of patients with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis, providing important information on anterior segment anatomy and potential complications. Further studies and consensus on postoperative follow-up protocols are required to optimize the management of patients with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis. Keywords: Boston Keratoprosthesis; Corneal transplantation; Ultrasound biomicroscopy; Anterior segment; Prostheses and implants