Corneal Conditions
The cornea is the clear window at the front of the eye that covers the coloured iris and the pupil. Light is focused while passing through the cornea to form a clear image on the retina. The healthy cornea is transparent. If the cornea is damaged or diseased it may become swollen or scarred, resulting in blurred vision or glare.
Corneal Transplants
A corneal transplant is needed if:
- vision cannot be corrected satisfactorily;
- painful swelling cannot be relieved by medications.
What conditions may require corneal transplants?
Keratoconus (steep curvature of the cornea)
Scarring after infections or injury
Corneal failure after other eye surgery
Rejection after a previous corneal transplant
Hereditary corneal failure, eg Fuchs' dystrophy
What happens during the operation?
The operation is painless and is usually done on an outpatient basis. You will not see the surgery while it is happening, and will not have to worry about keeping your eye open or closed. During the surgery, the damaged cornea is removed and a clear donor cornea is sewn into place.
What should I expect after surgery?
After a corneal transplant you will need to:
- use eye drops as prescribed;
- be careful not to rub or press on your eye;
- continue normal daily activities except exercise;
- ask your doctor when you can begin driving;
- wear an eye shield as advised by your doctor.
Your ophthalmologist will decide when the stitches will be removed, usually at least several months after the operation. Vision may continue to improve up to a year after surgery.
What complications can occur?
Corneal transplants are rejected 5% to 30% of the time. The rejected cornea clouds and vision deteriorates. Most rejections can be stopped if treated promptly. Warning signs of a rejection are: persistent discomfort; light sensitivity; redness; change in vision. Any of these symptoms should be reported to your ophthalmologist promptly. A corneal transplant can be repeated, but the overall risk of rejection increases for repeated transplants.