Penetrating keratoplasty for treatment of fungal corneal ulcer by using donor corneas preserved in pure glycerine.

Objective To observe the effects of penetrating keratoplasty for treatment of severe fungal corneal ulcer.Methods Penetrating keratoplasty was performed on 68 cases with severe fungal corneal ulcer using donor corneas preserved in pure glycerine.The post operative follow up ranged form 6 months to 5 years.Results In the total 68 cases,the infection was controlled in 67 cases after penetrating keratoplasty,the grafts was survived.In 4 cases the fungal ulcer recurred and then cured after medication and repeated surgery. The main complications were graft rejection,secondary glaucoma and bullous keratopathy.Conclusion To the severe fungal corneal ulcer unresponsive to the maximum medication,penetrating keratoplasty can effectively resolve infection,restore the integrity of the globe and provide support for the optical keratoplasty later.