To evaluate the 1-year results of Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in Korea.

The medical records of 9 patients (10 eyes) with endothelial disease who underwent DMEK from January 2012 to December 2013, and were followed up for more than 12 months were reviewed retrospectively.

In 8 eyes with successful results after surgery, best corrective visual acuity (BCVA) was significantly improved from 1.64 ± 0.21 (log MAR, mean) to 0.35 ± 0.22 at 1 month and was maintained at 12 months (p = 0.012, Wilcoxon signed ranks test). BCVA at postoperative 3, 6 and 12 months were gradually increased (0.25 ± 0.23, 0.20 ± 0.17 and 0.16 ± 0.17 log MAR). Endothelial cell counts were 1,996 ± 528/mm², 1,564 ± 174/mm² and 1,463 ± 541/mm², 1,205 ± 358/mm² at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, tended to decrease but showed no statistical significance. There was no statistical difference in astigmatism before and 3 months after the operation (3.32 ± 2.36 diopter and 2.57± 1.44 diopter). Primary graft failure occurred in 2 eyes and 1 received reoperation. Total detachment was found in 1 eye.

The 1-year results of DMEK showed fast visual recovery which was maintained for 12 months. DMEK may be a very efficient option for the surgical management of corneal endothelial disease.