Long-term results of penetrating keratoplasty using a single or double running suture technique

BACKGROUND: Corneal astigmatism changes after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) with single running suture (SRS) or double running suture (DRS) were evaluated in this prospective randomized study. METHODS: Sixty-eight consecutive eyes underwent PK: 35 received a SRS and 33 an anti-torque DRS using the same Hanna Suction System. All sutures were removed between 12 and 20 months after surgery. RESULTS: Within the first month after PK, a statistically significant difference was noted, with a lower mean value of astigmatism for the DRS group. The final mean postoperative videokeratographic astigmatism was 3.51+/-1.93 and 3.42+/-1.94 in the SRS and DRS group respectively (36 months' follow-up). CONCLUSIONS: Although the final astigmatism was about the same in the two suture groups, the DRS seems to lead to faster restoration of visual function due to early stability.