Experimental and Morphological Substantiation of the Use of the Cornea as a Drainage Device in Glaucoma Surgery
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Purpose. To evaluate the state of the intrascleral space after implantation of a donor corneal drainage device (native and following UV-crosslinking) in an organotypic culture model of cadaveric sclera. Material and methods. The experiment was performed on fragments of donor sclera (n=12). An intrascleral cavity (ISC) of standard dimensions was created. Specimens were divided into three groups: experimental group No. 1 — implantation of a native corneal drain; experimental group No. 2 — implantation of a corneal drain pretreated with UV-crosslinking according to the Dresden protocol; control group — ISC without a drain. Cultivation was carried out for up to 3 months in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum under standard conditions. Evaluation included macroscopic assessment of the ISC profile and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at 7 days, 14 days, 1 month, and 3 months. Results. In both experimental groups, the height and configuration of the ISC corresponding to the drain dimensions were maintained throughout the 3-month cultivation period; in the control group, the ISC became slit‑like by 3 months. SEM revealed signs of cellular activation and remodeling of the collagen matrix with the appearance of neocollagen fibers in the control group, which increased by 3 months. In the experimental groups, the ultrastructure of the scleral bed preserved an organized arrangement of collagen fiber bundles, and no marked connective tissue remodeling was observed. The surface of the drains in both experimental groups remained free of cell adhesion and neofibr ous structures at all time poi nts. Conclusion. The use of a corneal transplant as a drainage device ensures long‑term preservation of the intrascleral space volume, reduces the intensity of postoperative scarring, and does not induce a pronounced reaction to the implanted material. The potential benefits of prior corneal UV-crosslinking require further investigation using immunohistochemical methods. Keywords: glaucoma surgery, non-penetrating deep sclerectomy, donor cornea, intrascleral space, allodrain
Source: POINT OF VIEW EAST – WEST
Language: English
Subfield: Ophthalmology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204948969