Intraoperative optical coherence tomography-assisted retrocorneal fibrous membrane biopsy and excision

Purpose: We report a case of retrocorneal fibrous membrane (RCFM) formation following penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and intraoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT)-guided excision of this membrane.

Observations: A 68-year-old woman with primary open angle glaucoma and corneal decompensation of the right eye secondary to tube shunt presented for 3-month follow-up of PK. On examination of the right eye, the patient was noted to have a glassy pupillary membrane with traction on the iris. Anterior segment OCT confirmed a membrane connecting the iris to host cornea. The patient underwent biopsy and excision of the membrane assisted by intraoperative OCT. Pathological examination was consistent with Descemet's membrane proliferation. We suspect that this membrane represents retained host's Descemet's membrane following corneal transplantation.

Conclusions: This case highlights the existence of RCFM formation in the context of retained host cornea following PK and the role of intraoperative OCT in management.