Cornea Transplant
A cornea transplant, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy cornea from a donor. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye that plays a critical role in focusing light onto the retina. When the cornea becomes damaged due to disease, injury, or other factors, it can lead to significant vision problems and may require a transplant.
Indications for Cornea Transplant:
Corneal Disease: Corneal diseases, such as keratoconus (a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea), Fuchs’ dystrophy, and corneal scarring, can necessitate a cornea transplant.
Corneal Infections: Severe corneal infections that do not respond to medical treatment may require a transplant.
Corneal Injuries: Trauma to the cornea, such as deep lacerations or chemical burns, can result in the need for a cornea transplant.
Recurrent Corneal Erosion: In some cases, a recurrent, painful condition known as recurrent corneal erosion may require a transplant.
Cornea Transplant Types:
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP): This is a full-thickness transplant where the entire cornea is replaced with a donor cornea. It is typically used for extensive corneal damage or scarring.
Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK) and Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK): These are partial-thickness transplants that replace only the innermost layers of the cornea (endothelium and Descemet’s membrane). These procedures are primarily used for conditions like Fuchs’ dystrophy.
The Cornea Transplant Procedure:
Donor Cornea: The donor cornea is obtained from a deceased individual and is thoroughly screened to ensure its safety and suitability for transplantation.
Recipient Surgery: The recipient’s damaged cornea is removed, and the donor cornea is placed in its position. Sutures or other techniques are used to secure the new cornea in place.
Recovery: Following the surgery, patients typically need to use eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation. The recovery process can take several months, during which vision gradually improves.
Risks and Complications:
Cornea transplant surgery is generally considered safe and successful, but like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, including infection, graft rejection, and astigmatism. The chances of complications can vary depending on the patient’s specific condition and the type of cornea transplant performed.
