Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK)
If you are suffering from corneal swelling, keratitis, Fuchs’ dystrophy, pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK), or another common concern, you may be a candidate for Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (or “DSEK”).* When performed by a qualified physician, DSEK can replace dysfunctional endothelial cells and effectively improve a patient’s vision.
At New Eyes Las Vegas, our fellowship-trained corneal specialist – Ksenia Stafeeva, MD – has dedicated her career to helping patients combat corneal disease and vision loss. For more information about DSEK and our other advanced options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stafeeva.
What Is DSEK Surgery?
DSEK, which is also referred to as a “partial-thickness corneal transplant,” was designed as a minimally-invasive alternative to traditional corneal transplant surgery. Like the full-thickness (PK) corneal transplant technique, DSEK involves the replacement of
diseased endothelial cells with donor tissue; however, whereas PK replaces the entire cornea, DSEK only targets the endothelium.* As such, the DSEK procedure is generally much less intensive, typically requiring smaller incisions, a quicker recovery time, and a reduced risk of tissue rejection compared to PK.
What Is the Difference Between DSEK and DMEK Surgery?
In addition to DSEK, Dr. Stafeeva is able to perform Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK), which is another type of partial-thickness corneal transplant. While the two strategies are very similar, there is one key difference that sets them apart.
Specifically, the donor tissue used in DMEK does not contain stroma, which is the structural tissue that helps support the cornea’s integrity and shape. As a result, a DMEK graft is thinner and less robust than a DSEK graft.*
The presence of stromal support in a DSEK graft can reduce the risk of tissue loss and graft dislocation, leading to lower rates of graft failure and a greater chance of success. In many cases, this makes DSEK the preferred choice. With this in mind, Dr. Stafeeva will thoroughly examine your ocular health and discuss every option before helping you decide between DSEK, DMEK, or another potential solution.
How Is the DSEK Procedure Performed?
The DSEK procedure generally takes about 45 minutes and includes the use of local anesthesia, typically in the form of eye drops or injection. Dr. Stafeeva will carefully make a small (often around 5-6 mm) incision, from which she will remove the dysfunctional endothelial cells and insert the donor graft. She will then secure the graft with gentle pressure or an air bubble before gently closing the incision.
Patients can usually expect to be in recovery from DSEK for approximately 6-12 weeks. Certain side effects, such as sensitivity, redness, and blurry vision, are common initially, but should fade if the patient uses prescription eye drops as directed. Furthermore, Dr. Stafeeva will provide each patient with personalized aftercare instructions and require them to attend follow-up visits in the months after their procedure.
How Much Does DSEK Cost?
At New Eyes, we accept several insurance plans and offer eligible patients the chance to finance their treatment through CareCredit®. If you have any questions about the payment process for DSEK, please feel free to reach out to our team.
Please note that the final cost may vary depending on your unique case.
To learn more about DSEK or our other corneal transplant options, contact New Eyes Las Vegas today.
Medical References*
Cleveland Eye Clinic
National Library of Medicine
Dean McGee Eye Institute