Intraocular irrigating solutions. Their effect on the corneal endothelium
H. F. Edelhauser, D. L. Van Horn, R. A. Hyndiuk and R. O. Schultz
The effects of several intraocular irrigating solutions on the corneal
endothelium of rabbit and monkey corneas were evaluated, utilizing a
specular microscope perfusion system with both scanning and transmission
electron microscopy. Corneas perfused with 0.9% sterile isotonic
physiological saline swell at a rate of 60mum to 90mum/hr; endothelial
cells separate from each other and show extensive degenerative changes.
Corneas perfused with lactated Ringer solution swell at a rate of 37mum to
40mum/hr, and the endothelial cells show slower, but progressive
degeneration. Corneas perfused with balanced salt solution swell at 24mum
to 31mum/hr, and degenerative changes become severe only after two hours.
Corneas perfused with Ringer solution containing bicarbonate, reduced
glutathione, and adenosine do not increase in thickness, and there is
minimal deterioration of endothelial ultrastructure for periods of up to
six hours.
