A Novel Murine Model for Keratoprosthesis

Abstract

Purpose. To establish a murine model for keratoprosthesis. Methods. A miniature keratoprosthesis (m-KPro) device was created consisting of a poly[methyl methacrylate] front part and a titanium back plate, designed after the Boston KPro, which is in widespread clinical use. BALB/c mice were used and a 2 mm in diameter donor cornea was punched out. After 2-mm trepanation of the syngeneic recipient cornea, extracapsular crystalline lens extraction was performed. The m-KPro was assembled onto the cornea button in a similar manner to human KPro implantation. The cornea–device complex was secured to the recipient bed with eight interrupted 11-0 sutures. All mice (n = 10) were followed up for 8 weeks postoperatively. Results. All m-KPros were successfully implanted and retained in all 10 animals. There were no critical complications such as endophthalmitis, corneal melting, device extrusions, leakage, extensive inflammation, or weight loss in the animals. We observed mild to moderate donor and host corneal neovascularization in all cases throughout the follow-up period. Conclusions. We have established a novel murine model of KPro implantation that we anticipate will serve as a good experimental system for evaluating host responses after KPro surgery.