Keratopigmentation (corneal tattooing) for the management of visual disabilities of the eye related to iris defects.

AIM

To investigate the functional and cosmetic outcomes of keratopigmentation (KTP) in cases of moderate to severe visual dysfunctions owing to different iris disorders.

METHODS

11 eyes with moderate to severe visual disabilities related to iris defects underwent KTP for functional and cosmetic restoration using micronised mineral pigments and assisted with modern technologies such as femtosecond laser and new automated keratopigmentation instruments for the intrastromal and superficial application of the pigments.

RESULTS

Following the KTP surgery, the visual-function-related symptoms improved in all cases, from significant improvement to total elimination. Eight patients were asymptomatic after the surgery. In two patients, minimal non-disabling symptoms remained after surgery. One patient with traumatic aniridia complained of significant residual glare at the 3-month postoperative visit and was reoperated to reduce the simulated pupil to 4 mm. The cosmetic outcomes were analysed and classified as excellent in eight patients and good in three.

CONCLUSION

KTP using new micronised mineral pigments and new surgical protocols has proven in this series to be an effective surgical technique for the management of moderate to severe visual dysfunctions related to iris defects.