Corneal transplant surgery, also known as corneal grafting, is a procedure used to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye, crucial for focusing light and protecting the inner eye. When the cornea becomes cloudy or distorted due to disease, injury, or other conditions, a corneal transplant may be necessary to restore vision.
Understanding Corneal Transplant Surgery
Corneal transplant surgery involves removing the damaged cornea and replacing it with a donor cornea that is carefully matched to the recipient’s eye. There are several types of corneal transplant procedures, depending on the condition being treated and the specific needs of the patient:
- Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK):This is the most common type of corneal transplant, where the entire thickness of the cornea is replaced with donor tissue.
- Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK):This technique involves transplanting only the inner layer of the cornea, which is useful for conditions affecting the corneal endothelium.
- Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK):In this procedure, only the front part of the cornea is replaced, preserving the healthy back layers. It’s often used for treating conditions like keratoconus.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Before the Surgery: Prior to the corneal transplant, you will undergo a thorough eye examination to assess the health of your eyes and determine the most appropriate type of transplant. The examination may include measuring the thickness of your cornea, checking your overall eye health, and ensuring that you are a good candidate for the procedure.
During the Surgery: Corneal transplant surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the eye but allows you to remain awake. In some cases, sedation may be used to help you relax. The surgery typically takes between one to two hours.
The surgeon will make a small incision in the cornea to remove the damaged tissue, and the donor cornea will be carefully stitched into place using fine sutures. The new cornea is then secured with the stitches, and the incision is closed. After the procedure, a protective shield or bandage will be placed over the eye.
After the Surgery: Recovery from corneal transplant surgery can vary depending on the type of transplant and individual patient factors. Immediately following the surgery, you may experience some discomfort, redness, and watering of the eye. Your vision may be blurry at first, but this is a normal part of the healing process. You will need to use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Your eye will need to be protected from injury during the recovery period. It’s important to avoid rubbing or touching the eye and to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully. You will also need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that the cornea is integrating well.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, corneal transplant surgery carries some risks. Potential complications include:
- Rejection of the Donor Cornea: This is a common risk, but with prompt treatment, it can often be managed effectively.
- Infection: Maintaining proper hygiene and following post-operative care instructions can help minimise this risk.
- Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure may occur as a result of surgery or medications.
- Vision Changes: Some patients may experience fluctuations in vision or need additional procedures to achieve optimal results.
Corneal Cross-Linking: A Complementary Treatment
Corneal cross-linking is a non-surgical procedure used to treat keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes thin and conical. This treatment involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops to the cornea and then using ultraviolet (UV) light to strengthen the corneal tissue. The goal of corneal cross-linking is to halt the progression of keratoconus and improve corneal stability.
Corneal cross-linking is often considered before or in conjunction with corneal transplant surgery, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall eye health.
Conclusion
Undergoing corneal transplant surgery can significantly improve vision and quality of life for individuals with corneal damage or disease. While the procedure involves a careful surgical process and requires a period of recovery, the potential benefits in terms of restored vision are substantial.
At Southside Eye Centre, our team of expert ophthalmologists is dedicated to providing top-quality care for corneal transplant and other eye-related conditions. We ensure that our patients receive the best possible outcomes through a combination of advanced technology, skilled surgical techniques, and ongoing support throughout the recovery process. If you have questions or need further information about corneal transplant surgery, our team is here to assist you.
