Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy

Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK) is a relatively new disease that is rapidly becoming the prime indication for penetrating keratoplasty. From 1977 thru 1981 we performed 81 corneal transplants on 66 eyes for this condition. In our experience, the incidence of PBK, with iris-supported lenses, is five times greater than aphakic bullous keratopathy (ABK). A series of 800 intracapsular cataract extractions (ICCE) with implantation of iris-supported lenses (1975-1979) were reviewed. Thirty-four patients (4.3%) developed PBK (average two years after surgery). In a series of 3,000 simple ICCEs (1955-1980), 24 patients (0.8%) developed ABK. Etiologic factors, methods of prevention, and the results of penetrating keratoplasty are considered. PBK following ICCE is a serious disease entity, usually of multifactorial origin. Though 88% of the patients have clear grafts, a high incidence of associated posterior segment disease tends to nullify the visual result. Planned extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber lens insertion (1979-1982) has reduced our incidence of PBK to 0.3% (1/300). These results are promising but premature.