Corneal Biomechanical Evaluation After Meniscus-Shaped Stromal Lenticule Addition Keratoplasty (MS-SLAK) for Keratoconus

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate corneal biomechanical changes after meniscus-shaped stromal lenticule addition keratoplasty (MS-SLAK) performed for the treatment of keratoconus. Methods: This interventional study included patients affected by advanced keratoconus (stage III and IV) who underwent examination with a dynamic Scheimpflug analyzer and non-contact tonometer (Corvis ST; Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH) at baseline and 12 months after MS-SLAK. The biomechanical parameters evaluated in this study were integrated inverse radius (1/R), deformation amplitude ratio (DA ratio), stiffness parameter at first applanation (SP-A1), biomechanical intraocular pressure (bIOP), central corneal thickness (CCT), and stress-strain index (SSI). Results: Sixteen patients were enrolled in the study. The analysis was ultimately conducted on 15 patients. Comparative analyses showed an increase in corneal stiffness as demonstrated by a rise in SSI ( P < .0001) and SP-A1 ( P < .0001) and a decrease in DA ratio ( P < .0001) and 1/R ( P = .01). A significant increase in CCT was found ( P < .0001). No statistically significant modification was found for bIOP ( P = .43). Conclusions: The corneal biomechanical analyses evaluated by the Corvis ST showed that MS-SLAK for advanced keratoconus is able to increase corneal overall stiffness. This result is explained by the significant increase in thickness induced by MS-SLAK. [ J Refract Surg . 2023;39(7):499–504.]