Microkeratome-based limbal harvester for limbal stem cell transplantation: preliminary studies.

Abstract

To develop a mechanical device to perform limbal transplantation. This procedure is a valuable surgical technique for management of limbal stem cell deficiency. However, the freehand dissection to obtain donor tissue is laborious and time-consuming. A manual microkeratome (LSK One; Moria/Microtech, Doylestown, Pennsylvania) using a redesigned head (200 microm thickness, 16-mm blade) was used to create partial thickness corneoscleral caps from human donor globes. Corneoscleral caps obtained from human donor globes included a ring of approximately 1 mm of perilimbal sclera in contiguity to the cornea. Scanning electron microscopy showed a smooth cut surface with some chatter at the margins. This instrument ensures an effective and straightforward method to dissect the area where stem cells have been indirectly localized.