Use of Deep-frozen Human Cornea in Full-thickness Grafts

Abstract

A technique is now reported in which grafts of full corneal thichness are stored at -79[degree]C. These grafts have proved viable after storage of 29 days. Donor eyes were injected with a solution containing 7.5% dimethyl sulphoxide and then suspended in a medium containing 10% glycerol. They were sealed in ampoules and slowly cooled to and banked at -79[degree]C. After storage for periods of 10 to 29 days they were thawed out rapidly and used for full-thickness homografts. Nine cases are described, 7 of which have been observed for over 6 months; 5 of the 7 grafts have been successful. The remaining 2 (now in their third post-operative month) promise well. It is suggested that the 2 failures are attributable to the normal operative hazards, and that this method will form a basis for the widespread saving of donor material and the use of deep-frozen donor eyes where fresh material is not available.