Corneal Transplants
Peoria and Bloomington, Illinois
A corneal transplant, also known as a corneal graft or penetrating keratoplasty, involves the removal of the central portion (the button) of the diseased or scarred cornea and replacing it with a donor corneal button. Over 40,000 corneal transplants are performed each year in the U.S. Of all transplant surgeries performed today, including heart, lung and kidney, corneal transplants are by far the most common and successful.
Candidates for corneal transplant
The cornea is the clear front of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil. Light is focused while passing through the cornea so we can see clearly. If the cornea is damaged, it may become swollen or scarred. In either case, its smoothness and clarity may be lost. The scars, swelling, or any irregularity in the shape of the cornea can cause it to scatter or distort light, resulting in glare or blurred vision. You may be a candidate for corneal transplant if you have any of the following conditions:
- Corneal failure after other eye surgery, such as cataract surgery
- Keratoconus, a steep curving of the cornea
- Hereditary corneal failure, such as Fuchs' dystrophy
- Scarring after infections, especially after herpes
- Rejection after first corneal transplant
- Scarring after injury
The procedure
Once it is determined that you need a corneal transplant, your name is put on a list at the local eye bank. This wait is typically short. The cornea is carefully checked for clarity before it is released for transplant, and the eye bank tests the human donor for the viruses that cause hepatitis, AIDS, and other diseases. You may be required to have a physical examination and other special tests beforehand. If you take medications, ask your ophthalmologist if you should continue them.
The operation is painless. Anesthesia is either local or general, depending on your age, medical condition, and eye disease. 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 eyelid is opened and the ophthalmologist measures the eye for the size for the corneal transplant. The diseased or injured cornea is carefully removed from the eye. Any additional work within the eye, such as removal of a cataract, is completed, and then the clear donor cornea is sewn into place.
When the operation is over, your ophthalmologist will place a shield over your eye. Expect your stitches to be in place for several months. Your ophthalmologist will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions.
Risks and complications
The vast majority of people who undergo corneal transplants are pleased with their improved vision. However, there is some risk of implant rejection. Most rejections, if treated promptly, can be stopped with minimal injury.
Warning signs of rejection are persistent discomfort, light sensitivity, redness, and change in vision. Contact your eye doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms. A corneal transplant can be repeated, usually with good results, but the overall rejection rates for repeated transplants are higher the second time around.
If you live in Central Illinois and think you may be a good candidate for corneal transplants, please contact us today to arrange a consultation.