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This abstract is assigned to session SBO-BOG Free papers: Miscellanous

Title

FRO: Cultivated Limbal Stem Cell Transplantation - A New Approach

Purpose	A variety of conditions including chemical or thermal burns, Steven Johnson’s Syndrome, Aniridia, advanced Ocular Cicatricial Pemphigoid, extensive microbial infections etc. may lead to Limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) in the eye. The signs of LSCD include vascularization of the cornea with persistent epithelial defects and haze, resulting in a considerable loss of visual acuity. Here we take a look at cultivated limbal stem cell transplantation as new treatment modality to restore functioning limbal stem cells and improve outcome of any subsequently required keratoplasties.
Methods	Limbal explants taken from cadaveric donor corneas in case of bilateral disease or from the contralateral good eye in unilateral disease are placed in culture on amniotic membrane that has been denuded of its epithelium and spongy layer. The limbal stem cells are allowed to grow out of the explant and onto the amniotic basement membrane over a period of 2 to 3 weeks. The culture medium used is progenitor cell targeted, cholera toxin free as well as free from any animal derived products. The cultured cells along with the amniotic membrane are transplanted using an innovative technique which is simple, quick and requires minimal manipulation of the delicate stem cell graft.
Results	Two patients have been transplanted with this new technique: one received an allogenic graft grown from a cadaveric donor whilst the second received a graft generated from a biopsy taken from the contralateral good eye. Early post operative results show that the graft is securely in place and free from any signs of inflammation or rejection. Further follow up is required to establish long term outcome.
Conclusion	Although cultivated limbal stem cell transplantation has been in practice for some time now, an animal free culture system using processed, standardized amniotic membrane has yet to be described in a clinical setting. The new surgical technique described herein allows for secure graft placement without the need for extensive graft manipulation or sutures.

Author 1

Last name	ZAKARIA
Initials	N
City	Antwerp

Author 2

Last name	KOPPEN
Initials	C

Author 3

Last name

VAN TENDELOO

Author 4

Last name	BERNEMAN
Initials	Z

Author 5

Last name	TASSIGNON
Initials	MJ