descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty
Pronunciation: DES-eh-may STRIP-ing en-doh-THEE-lee-al ker-ah-toe-PLAS-tee
Partial-thickness corneal transplant procedure replacing only the damaged endothelial layer and Descemet's membrane.
Full Definition
Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) is a selective corneal transplantation technique that replaces only the posterior corneal layers - the endothelium and Descemet's membrane - while preserving the patient's anterior corneal structure. The procedure involves stripping away the diseased endothelium and inserting a donor posterior lamellar graft through a small incision. DSEK offers faster visual recovery and stronger wound integrity compared to penetrating keratoplasty, making it the preferred treatment for endothelial dysfunction conditions such as Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy. The technique has largely replaced full-thickness corneal transplants for purely endothelial diseases.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as DSEK; capitalize when used as acronym.
In Context
- "Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty achieved 20/40 vision in 85% of patients at six months." — Clinical outcomes study
- "The patient developed graft dislocation following descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty requiring repositioning." — Complication report