Histological and ultrastructural study of corneal tunnel incisions using diamond and steel keratomes

Abstract Purpose: To study the morphology of corneal tunnel incisions using diamond and steel keratomes. Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Giessen, Germany. Methods: Corneal tunnel incisions were performed in six human cadaver eyes using three types of diamond keratomes and a steel keratome. The incision profile and morphology were evaluated and compared using light and scanning electron microscopy. Results: The steel keratome caused more disruption of corneal stromal tissue, while the diamond keratomes produced a more regular, smoother incision. The dissecting incision resulted in a smoother surface of cut stromal tissue than the stab incision. Conclusions: The high quali…