Semiscleral Contact Lens Use After Direct Corneal Neurotization for Neurotrophic Keratopathy

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of a patient treated for neurotrophic keratopathy (NK) with direct corneal neurotization (CN), where a modification to the CN technique allowed for semiscleral contact lens use postoperatively.

Observation: Our patient had successful CN with improved corneal sensation. During the procedure, a 1.0 mm gutter was created between the limbus and nerve graft to allow for semiscleral contact lens fitting.

Conclusions: With the use of preoperative planning and a limbal gutter during CN, a semiscleral contact lens can serve as a well-tolerated postoperative management option to improve visual acuity and protect the corneal surface in patients with NK.