Background: Many attempts have been made to create artificial corneas. The keratoprostheses currently available do not allow measurements of the intraocular pressure (IOP) and restrict the visual field. The main problem is extrusion due to an insufficient connection between implant and surrounding tissue. It is our aim to create a flexible keratoprosthesis with a wide field optic allowing measurements of the IOP. Surface modification will improve cell adhesion and therefore stability between implant and tissue.
Methods: The keratoprosthesis is made of silicone rubber. The optical zone is 11 mm in diameter with a thickness of 0.3 mm. The surface modified haptic consists of a scleral rim and 8 branches for scleral fixation. Optical and mechanical qualities were tested by tensile tests, spectrophotometry and topography.
Results: A method to produce one-piece silicone keratoprostheses was established. Submicron lathing of the mould led to an excellent optical quality. Spectrophotometry showed high degree of visible and ultraviolet light transmission of the silicone. Mechanical tests revealed high tensile strength and elongation at break which were not impaired by surface modification.
Conclusion: The production of a flexible silicone keratoprosthesis with high optical and mechanical properties was accomplished, with possible use as both permanent and temporary keratoprosthesis.