Corneal transplantation, or keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy one from a donor. This operation is often the only solution for restoring vision in patients with severely damaged corneas.
What is the cornea?
The cornea is the thin, transparent layer at the front of the eye. It plays a crucial role in vision, helping to focus light as it enters the eye. When the cornea is damaged, this can lead to blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or even vision loss.
For whom is corneal transplantation recommended?
- Keratoconus patients: Keratoconus is a degenerative disease in which the cornea thins and takes on an irregular conical shape. This deformation leads to blurred vision and visual distortions. A corneal transplant may be necessary when contact lenses or glasses are insufficient to correct vision.
- Corneal scars: Scars on the cornea can be caused by infection, injury or chemical burns. These scars disrupt the transparency of the cornea, resulting in blurred vision. In severe cases where scarring affects the patient's quality of life, transplantation is often the best option.
- Corneal dystrophies are hereditary diseases in which abnormal deposits form on the cornea. Fuchs' dystrophy, for example, causes the cornea to swell, resulting in blurred vision. Transplants can restore corneal transparency and improve vision.
- Previous transplant failures: Some people who have already undergone a corneal transplant may require a new procedure if the first transplant fails, either due to rejection by the immune system or for other medical reasons.
Why opt for a corneal transplant?
The decision to have a corneal transplant depends on several factors. The main benefits of corneal transplantation are:
- Restoration of vision: A corneal transplant is the only option for restoring functional vision for many patients. This improvement can significantly impact quality of life, enabling patients to resume daily activities such as reading, driving, or working.
- Pain reduction: Certain conditions, such as severe infections or corneal ulcers, can cause intense pain. A corneal transplant can improve vision and relieve this pain.
- Improved eye appearance: A damaged or scarred cornea can sometimes make the eye look milky or opaque. A successful graft can restore the eye's clearer, more natural appearance.
Risks and limitations
Although corneal transplantation is a standard and generally successful procedure, it has risks. Graft rejection is one of the main problems, although immunosuppressive treatments can reduce this risk. Other complications may include infection, bleeding or inadequate healing.
It's also important to note that, even after a successful transplant, the patient may require glasses or contact lenses to achieve optimal vision.
Corneal transplantation is a vital procedure for those whose cornea is too damaged to ensure normal vision. It gives patients a new chance to regain functional vision, reduce visual impairment, and improve their quality of life.
