Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty-triple procedure: a useful clinical application of the pre-Descemet's layer (Dua's layer)

Purpose To describe a technique which exploits the transparency and toughness of the pre-Descemets layer (Dua's layer) to safely perform deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and phacoemulsification at the same time. Methods Three DALK procedures combined with phacoemulsification were performed by the same surgeon using the big-bubble (BB) technique at the Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Cairo, Egypt. In two cases a type-1 BB, baring Dua's layer, was achieved and in one case a type-2 BB, baring the Descemet's membrane (DM), was achieved. The surgeries were video recorded and photo slit-lamp images were taken in the follow-up visits. Results DALK with phacoemulsification and lens implant was carried out in both patients where a type-1 BB was achieved. At a follow up of 18 months (first case) and 6 months (second case), the best corrected vision was 6/12 for each. In the case where a type-2 BB was achieved, the DM ruptured during injection of viscoelastic prior to capsulorhexis. The procedure was converted to a penetrating keratoplasty without phacoemulsification. Conclusion When a type-1 BB is achieved simultaneous DALK and phacoemulsification can be safely accomplished. Dua's layer allows a clear view for performing phacoemulsification with the added benefit of its toughness, which can maintain a stable anterior chamber for cataract surgery. This should not be attempted when a type-2 BB is achieved.