Corneal Transplant

A corneal transplant is a surgical procedure involving the replacement of damaged or diseased corneal tissue with healthy donor corneal tissue. This procedure is performed to treat corneal diseases or injuries that cause vision loss. Here are the basic details about corneal transplant:

Types of Corneal Transplant:

Penetrating (Full-Thickness) Corneal Transplant (PKP): A method where the entire corneal tissue is replaced.

Lamellar Corneal Transplant (LKP): A method where only the damaged layer of the cornea is replaced.

Donor Cornea:

The donor cornea is usually obtained from a deceased (cadaver) donor. These tissues are donated with consent from organ donors or their families.

Donor tissue from a previous corneal transplant patient (keratoplasty) can also be used.

Surgical Stage:

The surgery is usually performed under local or general anesthesia.

The damaged corneal tissue is removed, and the donor cornea is appropriately placed.

Rejection and Healing Process:

After a corneal transplant, there is a risk of the patient’s body rejecting the donor tissue. Symptoms of this condition are monitored, and medication therapy is applied if necessary.

The healing process can take several weeks to several months.

Risks and Complications:

Corneal transplant is generally a successful procedure, but complications such as infection, problems at the suture sites, vision problems, or rejection can sometimes occur.

Post-operative Care:

Regular follow-up and checks are important for a patient after a corneal transplant.

The use of eye drops and medications continues according to the plan determined by the surgeon.

A corneal transplant can be an effective method for treating a range of conditions causing vision loss. However, every patient is different and should be evaluated by a surgeon according to their individual situations. This procedure is typically considered when other treatment options have failed or are not suitable.