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Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty: A Comprehensive Video Textbook

Howard Powell

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Published in Mastering DALK: A Video Textbook On Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty

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Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) is a corneal transplantation procedure that involves replacing only the damaged layers of the cornea, while leaving the healthy layers intact. This technique is often used to treat conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, and corneal dystrophies.

DALK is a complex procedure that requires specialized training and expertise. In this video textbook, we provide a comprehensive overview of the DALK procedure, from patient selection to postoperative care.

Mastering DALK: A Video Textbook on Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty

by Janet Evanovich

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5419 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	301 pages

Patient Selection

The first step in DALK is patient selection. Ideal candidates for DALK are those with corneal conditions that affect only the anterior layers of the cornea, such as keratoconus or corneal scarring. Patients with conditions that affect the entire cornea, such as Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy, are not good candidates for DALK.

Preoperative Preparation

Prior to surgery, patients will undergo a thorough eye examination to assess their corneal health and determine the extent of the damage. The surgeon will also discuss the risks and benefits of DALK with the patient and obtain informed consent.

Surgical Technique

DALK is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon begins by creating an incision in the cornea. The surgeon then uses a special instrument called a trephine to remove the damaged layers of the cornea. The healthy layers of the cornea are left intact.

The donor cornea is then prepared. The surgeon removes the endothelium and Descemet's membrane from the donor cornea. The donor cornea is then sutured into place.

Postoperative Care

After surgery, patients will be prescribed antibiotics and pain medication. They will also need to wear an eye patch for several days. Patients will need to follow up with their surgeon regularly to monitor their progress.

Complications

DALK is a relatively safe procedure, but there are some potential complications, such as:

* Infection * Bleeding * Corneal rejection * Glaucoma * Cataracts

DALK is a complex procedure that can be used to treat a variety of corneal conditions. In this video textbook, we have provided a comprehensive overview of the DALK procedure, from patient selection to postoperative care. We hope that this textbook will be a valuable resource for ophthalmologists who are interested in learning more about DALK.

Mastering DALK: A Video Textbook on Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty

by Janet Evanovich

5 out of 5