Keratoprosthesis: Preliminary results of an artificial corneal button as a full-thickness implant in the rabbit model

Purpose: To develop a prototype artificial cornea and evaluate it in the rabbit model. Methods: Hydrogel core-and-skirt keratoprostheses were made and were inserted as full-thickness implants covered with conjunctival flaps in the right eyes of eight rabbits. Results: Peroperative complications related to inadequate mechanical strength led to failure in the early postoperative period in three animals, one was euthanased for an unrelated reason and the remaining four have been successful for up to 16 weeks' follow-up. Conclusions: Full-thickness implantation of an artificial cornea, analogous to penetrating keratoplasty, has been achieved in the rabbit model. Histological findings confirm that integration of the prosthesis with host tissue occurs. The main complications encountered in this preliminary series were related to inadequate strength of the sponge skirt of this prototype device. Work in our laboratories is now concentrated upon improving the mechanical qualities of the hydrogel skirt and on the enhancement of biointegration.