Our Summary

This research paper examined the results and trends of corneal transplant surgeries at a leading eye center in Spain from 2001 to 2017. The study tracked the reasons for the surgery, how successful the transplant was, what type of transplant was used, and the patient’s vision after the surgery.

Out of 907 corneal transplants, they found that the success rate after a year ranged from 69% to 94%, and after five years it was between 45% and 85%, depending on the type of transplant. The main reasons for failure were the body rejecting the transplant, diseases on the surface of the eye, or the initial transplant not taking.

Interestingly, they found that all types of surgery improved the patient’s vision afterwards. However, the type of surgery that involved replacing only a portion of the cornea (lamellar procedures) had a higher success rate and better visual outcomes than surgeries that replaced the whole cornea (full-thickness grafts).

This research provides valuable information about the current trends and outcomes of corneal transplants in Spain.

FAQs

  1. What were the main reasons for the failure of corneal transplants according to the study?
  2. What type of corneal transplant surgery had a higher success rate and better visual outcomes?
  3. What was the success rate of corneal transplants after one year and five years according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient considering a corneal transplant is to discuss with their eye surgeon the different types of transplants available and which type may be best suited for their specific situation. It is also important for patients to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome and to reduce the risk of complications. Regular follow-up appointments with the eye surgeon are also crucial for monitoring the success of the transplant and addressing any issues that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for corneal transplant surgery are those with conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, corneal dystrophies, corneal ulcers, corneal edema, and corneal injuries. These conditions can result in significant vision impairment or discomfort for the patient, and a corneal transplant may be recommended to improve their vision and quality of life. Additionally, patients who have had previous corneal transplants that have failed may also be recommended for a repeat transplant.

Timeline

Before the corneal transplant:

  • The patient is diagnosed with a corneal disease or condition that cannot be treated with medication or other non-invasive methods.
  • The patient undergoes a series of eye exams and tests to determine if they are a suitable candidate for a corneal transplant.
  • The patient is placed on a waiting list for a donor cornea, which can take several months to years depending on availability.
  • Once a donor cornea becomes available, the patient undergoes the corneal transplant surgery.

After the corneal transplant:

  • The patient is monitored closely in the days and weeks following the surgery to ensure the transplant is successful and there are no complications.
  • The patient may experience some discomfort, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light during the initial recovery period.
  • Over time, the patient’s vision gradually improves as the transplant heals and integrates with the surrounding tissue.
  • The patient may need to use medicated eye drops and follow a strict post-operative care regimen to prevent infection and rejection of the transplant.
  • The patient attends follow-up appointments with their eye doctor to monitor their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.

Overall, a corneal transplant can significantly improve the patient’s vision and quality of life, but it is important for the patient to follow their doctor’s instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure the long-term success of the transplant.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about corneal transplant based on this research include:

  1. What is the success rate of corneal transplant surgeries at your facility?
  2. What are the main reasons for transplant failure, and how can they be prevented?
  3. What type of corneal transplant procedure do you recommend for my specific condition?
  4. What is the expected improvement in my vision after the surgery?
  5. How long will it take to recover from the surgery, and what is the post-operative care plan?
  6. Are there any potential complications or risks associated with the surgery?
  7. Will I need to take any medications or follow any specific lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  8. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery for monitoring and evaluation of the transplant’s success?
  9. What are the long-term outcomes and prognosis of the corneal transplant surgery in my case?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options or therapies that I should consider before proceeding with a corneal transplant?

Reference

Authors: Montesel A, Alió Del Barrio JL, Yébana Rubio P, Alió JL. Journal: Eur J Ophthalmol. 2021 Jul;31(4):1700-1708. doi: 10.1177/1120672120947592. Epub 2020 Aug 5. PMID: 32757624