DSEK and DSAEK

DSEK is a lamellar transplant replacing only the inner part of the cornea, that is the endothelium together with Descemet’s membrane and a thin layer of supporting tissue. The rest of the cornea remains the patient’s own.

The label DSAEK indicates the graft was prepared by a device, allowing a more precise and thinner layer. The graft is held in place inside the eye by an air bubble rather than sutures.

Compared with exchanging the full thickness of the cornea, healing is faster and the eye more robust afterwards.