Keratoprosthesis (KPro)
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Keratoprosthesis (KPro) is a surgically implanted artificial cornea designed to replace a diseased cornea in eyes where standard corneal transplantation has failed or has a very poor prognosis. It provides a permanent optical pathway for light to reach the retina when biological graft survival is unlikely.
Worldwide, corneal disease accounts for a significant proportion of blindness. Although corneal transplantation has high short-term success rates, graft survival declines markedly over time in high-risk conditions such as chemical and thermal burns, Stevens–Johnson syndrome, ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, severe dry eye, autoimmune disorders, and multiple failed grafts. In these cases, keratoprosthesis may be the only effective option to restore vision
Keratoprosthesis (KPro)
This is the most commonly used KPro worldwide. It consists of a rigid PMMA optical cylinder mounted within a donor corneal carrier.
- Type I is indicated for eyes with adequate tear production and blinking.
- Type II is reserved for severe dry-eye and cicatrizing ocular surface disorders, with the optical stem projecting through a surgically closed eyelid.
Osteo-Odonto-Keratoprosthesis (OOKP)
A complex, multi-stage procedure in which an optical cylinder is supported by the patient’s own tooth and surrounding alveolar bone. OOKP offers excellent long-term retention in the most severe ocular surface diseases but requires extensive surgical expertise and multidisciplinary care.
Auro KPro
Boston Kpro model manufactured by Aurolab.
Osteo-Kpro
A variation of the OOKP that uses bone instead of a tooth to hold the optical cylinder.
CorNeat KPro
A synthetic, non-donor tissue, bio-integratable keratoprosthesis for corneal blindness.
KERATOPROSTHESIS
A SIMPLE GUIDE FOR THE PUBLIC
Our eyes depend on a clear front window called the cornea to see clearly. When the cornea becomes severely damaged or scarred, vision can be lost. In many patients, a corneal transplant restores vision; however, in some patients, corneal transplants fail or are not possible. For such cases, a keratoprosthesis may be an option. This device is an artificial cornea made of
special-grade biocompatible medical-grade materials, which is surgically placed in the eye to replace the damaged cornea.
What are the Indications?
- Multiple failed corneal transplants
- Severe chemical or thermal burns
- Active Ocular Surface Diseases
How is the surgery done?
This procedure is performed by a trained cornea specialist under local or general anaesthesia.
What are the benefits of keratoprosthesis?
- Can restore useful vision in indicated patients
- Offers hope when a conventional corneal transplant is not successful
- Improves quality of life and independence.
What are the risks and Limitations?
Like any ocular surgery, keratoprosthesis has certain risks, including
- Like any ocular surgery, keratoprosthesis has certain risks including
- High intraocular pressure
- Retinal detachment
Keratoprosthesis is not a permanent cure but a vision restoring device. With good care and follow up many patients enjoy long lasting visual improvement.
AuroKPro – model S
Engineering Excellence
A next‑generation artificial corneal implant engineered for safety, stability, and superior surgical performance.
Key Design Innovations
6 mm Front Plate – Enhanced Corneal Protection
The compact 6 mm front plate offers enhanced coverage and structural protection for the donor cornea, thereby reducing trauma during and after implantation.
3.5 mm Optic – Leak‑Proof Donor Cornea Fit
A precisely engineered 3.5 mm optic ensures a secure, leak-proof interface between the kpro optic cylinder and the donor cornea,
delivering a stable fit.
450 Micron Interface Gap – Snug, No‑Gap Donor Cornea Seating
The optimal 450‑micron spacing between the front and back plates allows the donor cornea to seat perfectly without any gaps, ensuring stability and preventing postoperative complications.
Back Plate Engineering
7 mm “Gentle‑Flex” Back Plate
A newly designed 7 mm back plate with a gentle‑flex profile applies balanced, optimal pressure on the donor cornea—minimizing stress while ensuring consistent positioning.
Optic Step for Controlled Back Plate Seating
A built‑in step on the optic ensures the back plate seats securely without exerting excessive pressure on the corneal tissue.
Locking System Advancements
Precision‑Fit Titanium Lock
A perfectly engineered titanium lock eliminates the risk of slipping from
the optic groove, offering enhanced stability of the implant.
New Stainless Steel Lock Pusher (See‑Through Design)
The redesigned SS lock pusher features a transparent view window, enabling surgeons to achieve a perfect snap‑fit of the titanium lock with confidence and precision.
