Our Summary

This study looks at data on corneal transplants in Brazil over a 15-year period, from 2001 to 2016. The researchers used different statistical tests to find trends and compare data across different regions of the country. They found that the number of corneal transplants had more than doubled over this period, from about 6,000 to over 14,000, and the number of places where these transplants can be done increased significantly as well, from 32 to 356. The percentage of people who needed a corneal transplant and actually got one went up by about half, from 35.3% to 53.2%. However, the waiting list for this surgery went down by almost half, from about 23,500 to around 13,000. The researchers found the best results in the South, Midwest, and Southeast regions of Brazil, and the worst in the North and Northeast. Despite improvements, the study concluded that there’s still a big need for corneal transplants that isn’t being met, mainly because there aren’t enough donated corneas.

FAQs

  1. What was the increase in the number of corneal transplants in Brazil from 2001 to 2016?
  2. How did the number of locations offering corneal transplants in Brazil change over the 15-year period studied?
  3. Why is there still a high demand for corneal transplants in Brazil, despite the increase in surgeries and available locations?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about corneal transplant is to consider registering as an organ donor and discussing their wishes with their family. By becoming an organ donor, they can potentially help save the lives of others in need of a cornea transplant and contribute to reducing the waiting list for this surgery. Additionally, it’s important for patients to follow their doctor’s post-operative instructions closely to ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for corneal transplant include those with:

  1. Corneal scarring or clouding due to injury or infection
  2. Keratoconus, a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea
  3. Corneal dystrophies, such as Fuchs’ dystrophy or lattice dystrophy
  4. Corneal ulcers that do not respond to other treatments
  5. Corneal swelling (edema) that affects vision
  6. Corneal damage from previous eye surgeries
  7. Corneal thinning or irregularities that affect vision
  8. Corneal degeneration or thinning associated with aging (e.g. with older adults)

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist to determine if they are suitable candidates for a corneal transplant and to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before the corneal transplant:

  1. Patient experiences vision problems, such as blurry vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night.
  2. Patient undergoes various eye exams and consultations with an ophthalmologist to determine the need for a corneal transplant.
  3. Patient is placed on a waiting list for a donor cornea, which can take months or even years to receive.
  4. Patient may experience worsening vision and discomfort as they wait for the transplant.

After the corneal transplant:

  1. Patient undergoes the transplant surgery, which involves removing the damaged cornea and replacing it with a healthy donor cornea.
  2. Patient may experience discomfort, redness, and sensitivity to light in the days following the surgery.
  3. Patient is prescribed eye drops and medications to prevent infection and promote healing.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to monitor their progress and ensure the success of the transplant.
  5. Patient’s vision gradually improves over time as the new cornea heals and adjusts to the eye.
  6. Patient may need to wear glasses or contact lenses to achieve the best possible vision after the transplant.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of corneal transplant surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with corneal transplant surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after a corneal transplant?
  4. How will my vision be affected after the surgery?
  5. What are the alternatives to corneal transplant surgery?
  6. How long do transplanted corneas typically last?
  7. What is the process for finding a donor cornea?
  8. Are there any specific lifestyle changes I should make post-surgery?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with you after the transplant?
  10. Are there any specific medications I will need to take after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Almeida HG, Hida RY, Kara-Junior N. Journal: Arq Bras Oftalmol. 2018 Nov./Dec.;81(6):529-538. doi: 10.5935/0004-2749.20180096. Epub 2018 Oct 8. PMID: 30304091