Our Summary

Our eyes have two lenses: the cornea and the internal lens. These two lenses work together to focus images on the back of the eye, or the retina, so that we can see clearly. However, certain conditions can cause these lenses to become less clear. For example, swelling (edema) can make the cornea less transparent, and when the internal lens becomes cloudy, it’s called a cataract. Both of these conditions can significantly impact our vision.

Cataract surgery is quite common, but sometimes, this procedure can result in the cornea permanently losing its transparency. In such cases, a corneal transplant is needed. This research paper explores why this sometimes happens.

FAQs

  1. What are the two lenses in our eyes and what is their function?
  2. What conditions can cause these lenses in the eyes to become less clear?
  3. What is a corneal transplant and why might it be needed after cataract surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient undergoing a corneal transplant is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully. This includes taking any prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding activities that could potentially harm the healing cornea. It’s important to protect the eye from injury, infection, and excessive strain during the recovery period to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, it’s important to communicate any concerns or changes in vision to your doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Additionally, corneal transplants are often recommended for patients with conditions such as:

  • Keratoconus, a progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea
  • Fuchs’ dystrophy, a condition where cells in the cornea’s inner layer deteriorate
  • Scarring or injury to the cornea
  • Corneal ulcers that do not respond to medication
  • Corneal swelling due to previous eye surgery or other factors

Overall, patients who have significant vision impairment or discomfort due to corneal conditions are typically recommended for a corneal transplant. It is important for these patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist to determine if a corneal transplant is the best course of action for their individual situation.

Timeline

Before a corneal transplant:

  • The patient may experience blurry vision, glare, halos around lights, or other vision problems due to a damaged or cloudy cornea.
  • The patient will undergo a comprehensive eye examination to determine if a corneal transplant is necessary.
  • The patient will be evaluated for any underlying health conditions that may affect the success of the transplant.
  • The patient will be placed on a waiting list for a suitable donor cornea.
  • The patient will undergo preoperative testing, including measurements of the eye, to prepare for the surgery.

After a corneal transplant:

  • The patient will undergo the corneal transplant surgery, which involves replacing the damaged or cloudy cornea with a healthy donor cornea.
  • The patient will be monitored closely after the surgery for any signs of infection or rejection of the new cornea.
  • The patient will be prescribed medications to prevent infection and rejection, as well as to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
  • The patient will need to attend follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to ensure the success of the transplant and monitor their vision.
  • Over time, the patient’s vision should improve as the new cornea heals and adapts to the eye.
  • The 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 a corneal transplant and how is it performed?
  2. What conditions may necessitate a corneal transplant?
  3. What are the risks and potential complications of a corneal transplant?
  4. What is the success rate of corneal transplant surgery?
  5. What is the recovery process like after a corneal transplant?
  6. How long will it take for my vision to improve after the surgery?
  7. Will I need to take any medications or follow a special care routine after the transplant?
  8. Are there any restrictions or limitations on activities following a corneal transplant?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or options to consider before opting for a corneal transplant?

Reference

Authors: Bourges JL. Journal: Med Sci (Paris). 2020 Aug-Sep;36(8-9):747-751. doi: 10.1051/medsci/2020132. Epub 2020 Aug 21. PMID: 32821051