Descemet's membrane detachment
Pronunciation: des-eh-MAY
Separation of Descemet's membrane from the corneal stroma, often occurring as a surgical complication.
Full Definition
Descemet's membrane detachment (DMD) is the separation of the thin, posterior basement membrane of the cornea from the overlying stroma. This condition can occur iatrogenically during intraocular surgery, particularly when instruments are introduced into the anterior chamber, or spontaneously due to trauma or corneal disease. Small detachments may self-attach with conservative management, while larger detachments require intervention such as air or gas injection to reappose the membrane. Persistent detachments can lead to corneal edema and visual impairment if the underlying endothelium is compromised.
Usage
Usage note: Possessive apostrophe in Descemet's is required. Commonly abbreviated as DMD.
In Context
- "A small Descemet's membrane detachment was noted inferiorly but remained stable post-operatively." — Surgical complication note
- "The DMD was successfully treated with intracameral air injection." — Treatment documentation