PREDICTORS OF GRAFT REJECTION FOLLOWING FULL THICKNESS PENETRATING KERATOPLASTY - A PROSPECTIVE ,ANALYTICAL HOSPITAL BASED STUDY

This study analysed the inuence of various risk factors on graft rejection and emphasized the importance of its early recognition and management. Materials & Methods: Prospective, Analytical, Hospital-based study, the study population consisted of 84 eyes of 80 patients who underwent full-thickness penetrating keratoplasty from September 2014 to May 2016. All transplant surgeries were performed by a single surgeon. Patients were examined on the rst postoperative day and followed up periodically. During each visit, the graft was assessed and ndings documented. Results: Rejection rate was 34.52% (29 out of 84 eyes). Young recipient age, presence of corneal vascularisation and peripheral anterior synechiae were associated with a signicantly higher risk of rejection. Conclusion: Identication of high risk patients preoperatively helps the surgeon to plan for aggressive therapy and follow up of these patients.