2026, Number 1
Importance of implementing specular microscopy to reduce the rejection rate in corneal transplantation at Hospital General 450 in Durango
Lerma-Burciaga CF, Puentes-Medina P, Luna-Gualito BE, Fuentes-García E, Quezada-Lozoya C
Full text
10.35366/122935
Language: Spanish
References: 4
Page: 39-41
PDF size: 245.41 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Corneal transplantation is the most frequently performed tissue transplant worldwide, and its success largely depends on the viability of the graft’s corneal endothelium. Specular microscopy is the international standard for evaluating endothelial cell density and morphology prior to transplantation; however, its use is not systematically implemented in many institutions in Mexico. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between the absence of specular microscopy and the rate of graft rejection in corneal transplants performed at Hospital General 450 in Durango. A retrospective, observational, and descriptive study was conducted, analyzing 20 patients who underwent corneal transplantation between January 2024 and June 2025. Clinical records were reviewed to identify the presence and timing of graft rejection during the first postoperative year. Thirteen patients (65%) showed favorable outcomes, while seven (35%) developed graft rejection. Of these cases, 85.7% occurred within the first six months after surgery. These results contrast with international rejection rates of less than 10% in centers where endothelial evaluation using specular microscopy is routinely performed. The implementation of this technology could improve donor tissue selection, reduce rejection rates, and optimize clinical outcomes in corneal transplant programs.REFERENCES