Penetrating keratoplasty combined with intrascleral fixation of a four-haptic intraocular lens in aphakic eyes with corneal pathology - Report - MDSpire

Penetrating keratoplasty combined with intrascleral fixation of a four-haptic intraocular lens in aphakic eyes with corneal pathology

  • By

  • Chang Xu

  • Shuying Liao

  • Wei Wang

  • Zhuo Chen

  • Xiaochun Mao

  • Guigang Li

  • June 26, 2026

  • 0 min

Share

Clinical Report: Combined Penetrating Keratoplasty and Intrascleral Fixation

Background

Corneal blindness is a significant cause of visual impairment globally, and penetrating keratoplasty remains essential for complex corneal pathologies. Aphakic patients with insufficient capsular support pose unique challenges for visual rehabilitation, necessitating innovative surgical approaches that address both corneal transparency and stable IOL fixation.

Data Highlights

ParameterPreoperative6 Months Postoperative
Mean BCVA (logMAR)3.00 ± 0.001.04 ± 0.14
Mean IOP (mmHg)15.66 ± 1.9816.48 ± 0.64
Mean ECD (cells/mm²)-2,445 ± 193.5

Key Findings

  • Mean BCVA improved significantly from 3.00 to 1.04 logMAR (p < 0.001).
  • Mean IOP remained stable with no significant difference (p = 0.661).
  • Four out of five grafts remained clear at the 6-month follow-up.
  • All IOLs were centered and stable postoperatively.
  • Mean endothelial cell density at 6 months was 2,445 ± 193.5 cells/mm².

Clinical Implications

The combined technique of PKP and intrascleral fixation of a four-haptic IOL may provide a viable option for managing aphakic patients with corneal disorders.

Conclusion

The preliminary outcomes indicate that this combined surgical approach is feasible and may lead to improved visual and anatomical results in selected aphakic patients.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Ophthalmology Management, 2017 -- Aphakia options in the OR
  2. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2021 -- CONTACT LENS CASE REPORTS
  3. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2025 -- Preserving a Failing Penetrating Keratoplasty Graft
  4. Ophthalmology, 2026 -- Current Indications and Outcomes of Penetrating Keratoplasty in the United States
  5. PubMed, 2025 -- Comparison of three types of scleral fixation of the intraocular lens
  6. Frontiers, 2026 -- Penetrating Keratoplasty Combined With Intrascleral Fixation of a Four-Haptic Intraocular Lens in Aphakic Eyes With Corneal Pathology
  7. Contact Lens Spectrum — Managing The Irregular Cornea With Contact Lenses
  8. Current Indications and Outcomes of Penetrating Keratoplasty in the United States - Ophthalmology
  9. Comparison of three types of scleral fixation of the intraocular lens - PubMed
  10. Frontiers | Penetrating Keratoplasty Combined With Intrascleral Fixation of a Four-Haptic Intraocular Lens in Aphakic Eyes With Corneal Pathology

Original Source(s)

Related Content