Return of human corneal sensitivity after penetrating keratoplasty
W. D. Mathers, J. V. Jester and M. A. Lemp
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Arizona Health Science Center, Tucson.
To evaluate the reinnervation of corneal grafts, we studied 91 eyes of 79
patients for the return of sensitivity one month to ten years following
penetrating keratoplasty for various corneal disorders including
keratoconus, Fuchs' dystrophy, herpes simplex keratitis, aphakic and
pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, glaucoma, trauma, and interstitial
keratitis. Using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer, a sensation was recorded
in the center of the graft no earlier than 18 months. We found a
progressive return of sensitivity from the periphery toward the center of
the graft. Regression analysis indicated a rate of return of sensitivity
that averaged 0.029 mm/mo for each diagnostic category except herpes
simplex keratitis. The slope of the return of sensitivity in the group with
herpes simplex keratitis was essentially flat, showing no central
progression. None of the eight patients with herpes simplex keratitis had a
sensation recorded further than 0.5 mm from the wound margin.
