YAG Laser Treatment for Epithelial Ingrowth in Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty Interface

Purpose: To present a case of epithelial ingrowth in the graft-host interface after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) surgery that was successfully treated with a yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser. Methods: A 53-year-old white woman underwent uncomplicated combined cataract and DMEK surgery in her right eye. At her regularly scheduled 6-month follow-up visit, an asymptomatic dense white interface opacity was observed. Confocal imaging confirmed the presence of epithelial cells. After initial close observation, the opacity was noted to be slowly growing and the patient underwent YAG laser treatment for the opacity. Results: The patient remained stable 4 months postlaser treatment with no recurrence of epithelial ingrowth. Conclusions: YAG laser treatment may be a safe and effective way to treat early-stage epithelial ingrowth in the interface after DMEK surgery.