Intrastromal keratopigmentation: a boon for unsightly corneal scars.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to improve cosmesis in patients with corneal opacity (CO) using newer organic micronized pigments.

METHODS: Settings: Tertiary Care eye center, Design: Retrospective study.

INCLUSION CRITERIA: Patients with unsightly corneal scars not suitable for keratoplasty, eccentric corneal opacity not requiring keratoplasty, or lenticular opacity/anterior or posterior capsular opacities in non-seeing eyes. Micronized organic pigment was used for keratopigmentation by the intrastromal pocket technique (ISPT) in deep corneal opacities and lenticular opacities, whereas the intrastromal needle puncture technique (ISNT) was used in superficial opacities or corneoiridic scars. The records of 463 patients were reviewed and analyzed for the duration of the past 7 years.

RESULTS: Two hundred and ninety-three (63.2%) patients underwent ISNT, eight underwent combined technique, and the rest underwent ISPT. The postoperative follow-up period showed more watering and redness in the needle puncture technique (p > 0.001), which resolved in 70.4% of patients by the end of 4 weeks. Repeat procedures were required in 5.3% of the patients with ISNT. The patient's satisfaction grading showed excellent levels in 375 (80.9%) patients, 45 (9.7%) had good satisfaction levels, and the rest had average satisfaction levels.

CONCLUSION: Intrastromal keratopigmentation is a boon for unsightly corneal scars and gives respite to the patients from the social stigma.