Feasibility of Implementing National Corneal Transplant Registry: Ottawa Pilot Study
Narrative Responses:
Purpose
There are currently only three countries with corneal transplant registries: Australia, Sweden, and India. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility of implementing a Canadian Corneal Transplant Registry by conducting an initial pilot study on a smaller scale in the Ottawa region.
Methods
We are investigating the logistics of implementing a corneal transplant registry. Details of the donor graft and procedure itself will be recorded. Results from examination and testing during follow-up will be collected. An online database, accessible to each corneal transplant surgeon, will be set up. Issues with the implementation and execution of the registry will be addressed, prior to proceeding at the national level, leading to a smooth and cost-effective transition.
Results
Data collection forms focused on indications for transplantation, visual outcomes and post-operative complications. From the 256 grafts studied thus far, the most prevalent procedures were DSEK/DSAEK (54%) and PKP (26%). The most common indications for transplantation were Pseudophakic Bullous Keratopathy (26%) and Fuch’s dystrophy (24 %). The overall incidence of graft failure was 19%. Rejection and graft detachment lead to regrafting in 70% of cases. The most common post-operative complications were loose or broken suture in 20% of cases and elevated IOP in 18% of cases.
Conclusion
Our database will help serve as the framework for a larger-scale corneal transplant registry in Canada.