The acceptance of a vitreous carbon alloplastic material, Proplast, in the rabbit eye.

Proplast, a vitreous, carbon-Teflon, fluorocarbon polymer, was tested in rabbits for corneal tolerance and acceptance. Toxicity, vascularization, epithelialization, infection, and extrusion were studied clinically and histologically. Four techniques were used: implantation of irregular-shaped pieces of material in an interlamellar corneal pocket, lamellar graft implantation with one exposed surface, full-thickness corneal implants in a manner similar to penetrating keratoplasty, and full-thickness implants covered by a conjunctival flap. Results showed that Proplast allows fibrovascular ingrowth and stabilization without a significant foreign body response or encapsulation for a period of observation from 6 weeks to 4 months. Evidence of epithelial coverage and epithelial ingrowth was also found. Coverage of the Proplast with conjunctiva or corneal tissue was essential to prevent extrusion and infection.