Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty: Recovery of Reading Ability and Contrast Sensitivity Compared to Visual Acuity

摘要

Purpose: : To evaluate and compare distance visual acuity with reading ability and contrast sensitivity outcomes following treatment of Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy with Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). Methods: : The study population comprised 17 eyes of 10 patients following DSAEK performed by a single surgeon between December 2006 and September 2009 were analyzed postoperatively. The contrast sensitivity was determinded using a standard Pelli-Robson chart at 1 meter distance with a standardized light source. The best-corrected distance visual acuity was assessed using ETDRS charts. Reading ability was assessd with Radner reading charts (german version). The anatomical and refractive status was assessed by Visante OCT and the Pentacam. Patients showing any sign retinal macular disease were excluded. Results: : Mean patient age at surgery was 69 years (range 65 to 82 years).Anatomically, all transplants were attached and well centered. The refractive status did not show surface or corneal curvature irregularities. The mean logMAR distance visual acuity was 0.1847 (range 0.42-0.08, SD = 0.132). The mean logRAD (reading ability score) was 0.245 (range 0.0-0.70, SD = 0.162). The mean contrast sesitivity score was 1.53(range 1.25 - 1.65, SD = 0.12). Conclusions: : In the present cohort, DSAEK results in acceptable distance visual acuity, but shows that more sensitive tests of visual function are impaired at a higher level than the respective distance visual acuity.