Advanced Keratoconus with Hydrops: Light at the End of the Tunnel

The rupture of the Descemet membrane in an acute setting leads to a condition called acute corneal hydrops. While its incidence is low, it can be encountered in those with weakened and thin corneas such as those with advanced keratoconus. The inflow of aqueous fluid into the corneal stroma leads to the development of corneal edema and severe impairment of vision quality. The edema usually resolves over time with scarring, but in a few cases delayed recovery can be an inciting factor for infection as well as vascularization. Surgical management of Descemet tears can prove helpful in the fast resolution of symptoms as well as hasten recovery. The following chapter provides insight into a case of acute unilateral hydrops that was managed by intracameral perfluoro propane (C3F8)-assisted descemetopexy and good visual rehabilitation achieved with scleral contact lenses later after corneal healing.