Suture-related complications after penetrating keratoplasty at King Hussein Medical Center

Abstract EN

Objective : To study suture related complications after penetrating Keratoplasty and their role in the success of corneal graft surgery, and to define postoperative management outlines.

Methods : The descriptive study was conducted on patients who underwent penetrating Keratoplasty at King Hussein Medical Center in Amman, Jordan between March 2005 and February 2009.

It included 75 patients, they were followed for suture related complications during their routine visits, the clinical findings recorded at follow up visits included epithelial erosions around sutures, sterile infiltrates, infectious keratitis, loose or broken sutures, and wound dehiscence after suture removal.

Results : Spontaneous loosening or breakage of sutures occurred in 12 patients (16%), at an average of 7 months post surgery.

Suture related abscesses were seen in 4 patients (5.3%) at an average of 14 months.

Sterile infiltrates were seen in 10 patients (13.3%) at an average of 6 months.

Suture erosions over the nylon sutures were found in 6 patients (8 %) at an average of 10 months, while four patients (5.3%) presented with broken sutures and leaking wound at an average of 10 months.

Conclusion : Proper postoperative care is important for a successful penetrating keratoplasty.

Suture related complications frequently occur after penetrating keratoplasty.

Prompt and proper management is essential and will result in earlier visual rehabilitation and greater long-term graft survival.