Autograft Versus Allograft in Indirect Corneal Neurotization: A Systematic Review.
Salem Abu Al-Burak, Mohamed Ali, Mohamad Tarek Madani et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated the clinical outcomes of autologous versus processed nerve allografts for indirect corneal neurotization in patients with neurotrophic keratopathy. The review included 11 studies with 150 eyes, revealing significant improvements in corneal sensation, with autograft mean Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry increasing from 2.7 to 31.1 mm and allograft from 5.23 to 41.7 mm. No clear superiority of either graft type was identified.
Key findings
- Mean Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry increased from 2.7 to 31.1 mm in autograft cohorts.
- Mean Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometry increased from 5.23 to 41.7 mm in allograft cohorts.
- Visual acuity improved in 60.6% of autograft-treated eyes and 66.7% of allograft-treated eyes.
- No graft rejection was reported in allograft cases.
Why it matters
Understanding the comparative efficacy and safety of autografts and allografts in corneal neurotization can help clinicians make informed surgical decisions, potentially improving patient outcomes in neurotrophic keratopathy.
What to keep in mind
All included studies were at serious risk of bias, and the overall certainty of evidence was very low.