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VIDEO: Decellularized amniotic membrane an option for neurotrophic keratitis

Healio Ophthalmology1d ago1 min read

MIAMI — In this video from Sunshine Eye & Retina, Neel R. Desai, MD, discusses access to treatment options for neurotrophic keratitis.Patients may have trouble accessing Oxervate (cenegermin-bkbj, Dompé), but according to Desai, other treatments are available, including decellularized amniotic membrane.“Many times, we will place a Biovance 3L membrane (DefEYE) on a patient with stage 1, stage 2 or even stage 3 [neurotrophic keratitis], and we’re finding that by the time Oxervate has been approved, they don’t need it anymore,” Desai, of the Eye Institute of

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AI Summary

Quick Take

Dr. Neel R. Desai highlights decellularized amniotic membrane, specifically Biovance 3L, as a highly effective intervention for neurotrophic keratitis (NK) that can often resolve the condition before insurance approval for cenegermin-bkbj (Oxervate) is even secured. Clinical observations suggest that patients across Stage 1, 2, and 3 NK show significant healing with the membrane, potentially bypassing the need for more expensive biologic treatments.

Why It Matters

While Oxervate is a breakthrough for neurotrophic keratitis, the administrative hurdles and time-to-treatment can be prohibitive for a condition that risks rapid corneal melting. Utilizing decellularized amniotic membranes provides a more immediate, accessible regenerative option that fits into the current workflow of ocular surface management. This approach highlights a practical shift in treating NK, where clinicians are using available surgical tools to bridge the gap created by the high cost and slow approval process of specialized pharmaceuticals.

Key Details

Biovance 3L (DefEYE) is a decellularized amniotic membrane being utilized as an alternative or bridge therapy for neurotrophic keratitis.
The treatment is applicable for patients across the spectrum of the disease, including Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 NK.
Clinicians are finding that the healing response to the membrane is often sufficient enough that patients no longer require Oxervate by the time it is approved.
The use of these membranes addresses the common clinical challenge of delayed access to cenegermin-bkbj due to insurance and specialty pharmacy hurdles.

Practice Implications

Clinicians should consider the early application of decellularized amniotic membranes like Biovance 3L for patients with neurotrophic keratitis to stabilize the ocular surface immediately. This strategy may serve as a definitive treatment or a vital bridge therapy, particularly for patients facing long wait times for biologic medication approvals.

Who's Affected

Cornea SpecialistsComprehensive OphthalmologistsOptometristsPractice Owners

Evidence StrengthPreliminary

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