Posterior Migration of a Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty Graft Associated With Macular Proliferative Changes

Cureus 2026 Open access

Read full text
Authors: Naoki Nezu, Toshiki Shimizu, Yorihisa Kitagawa, Takahiko Hayashi, Satoru Yamagami
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.100897
Cited by: 0
References: 10

Abstract

A 79-year-old male underwent descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for bullous keratopathy. Intraoperatively, the intraocular lens (IOL) became unstable during graft manipulation, and the graft was lost from the anterior chamber. Postoperative examination failed to identify the graft. Two weeks later, optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed macular proliferative changes without hemorrhage or peripheral ischemia. Subsequent pars plana vitrectomy revealed the DMEK graft in the vitreous cavity, associated with fibrovascular proliferation. The graft was successfully removed. This case demonstrates a rare complication of DMEK and emphasizes the need for vigilance in eyes with compromised posterior capsule or zonules.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Corneal surgery and disorders Retinal and Macular Surgery Intraocular Surgery and Lenses

Publication details

Journal / source
Cureus
Volume
18
Issue
1
Pages
e100897–e100897
Publication date
6 January 2026
Language
EN