Our Summary

This study looks at the risk of developing glaucoma, an eye condition that can lead to blindness, after undergoing a corneal transplant. The research examined data from a sample of Medicare beneficiaries who had different types of corneal transplant surgeries between 2010 and 2013. They found that between 6.1% and 9.4% of these patients needed glaucoma surgery within the same year, with no significant differences between the types of transplant. However, patients who had glaucoma before their transplant were more likely to need glaucoma surgery afterwards, particularly those who had had a specific type of transplant known as PK. These findings suggest that patients with existing glaucoma need to be carefully monitored after a corneal transplant, especially if they have had a PK transplant.

FAQs

  1. What is the risk of developing glaucoma after a corneal transplant?
  2. Are there different risks associated with different types of corneal transplant surgeries?
  3. How does having glaucoma before a corneal transplant affect the likelihood of needing glaucoma surgery afterwards?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about corneal transplant is to closely monitor for any signs or symptoms of glaucoma post-surgery, especially if the patient had glaucoma before the transplant or underwent a specific type of transplant known as PK. Regular follow-up appointments with an ophthalmologist are important to ensure early detection and management of any potential glaucoma complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a corneal transplant are those with conditions such as:

  • Keratoconus: a progressive thinning of the cornea that causes it to bulge outward, leading to distorted vision
  • Corneal scarring: from infections, injuries, or previous surgeries
  • Fuch’s dystrophy: a genetic condition that causes the cornea to become cloudy and swollen
  • Corneal degeneration: age-related changes that affect the clarity and shape of the cornea
  • Corneal edema: swelling of the cornea due to fluid accumulation
  • Corneal ulcers: open sores on the cornea caused by infection or injury

These patients may experience significant vision loss or discomfort that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, making a corneal transplant the best option for improving their vision and quality of life.

Timeline

  • Before corneal transplant: Patients may have been experiencing vision loss, pain, discomfort, or other symptoms related to their corneal condition. They would have undergone various tests and evaluations to determine if a corneal transplant is necessary.

  • Day of corneal transplant: The patient would undergo the surgical procedure, which involves removing the damaged or diseased cornea and replacing it with a healthy donor cornea. The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia.

  • After corneal transplant: The patient would need to wear an eye patch for a few days following the surgery and may experience some discomfort, redness, and blurry vision. They would need to attend follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to monitor the healing process and ensure the new cornea is functioning properly.

  • Weeks to months after corneal transplant: The patient’s vision should gradually improve as the new cornea heals and adjusts. They may need to continue using eye drops and follow a strict post-operative care regimen to prevent infection and rejection of the transplant.

  • Long-term after corneal transplant: Patients may need to continue regular follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to monitor the health of the transplanted cornea and address any potential complications, such as glaucoma. With proper care, many patients experience significant improvement in their vision and quality of life after a corneal 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 and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to take any medications after the surgery, and if so, what are the potential side effects?
  5. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  6. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication or rejection of the transplant?
  7. How will having glaucoma before the transplant affect my risk of developing glaucoma after the surgery?
  8. What specific measures will be taken to monitor and manage my risk of developing glaucoma after the transplant?
  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to protect my eyes and the transplant long-term?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may be considered instead of or in addition to a corneal transplant?

Reference

Authors: Zheng C, Yu F, Tseng VL, Lum F, Coleman AL. Journal: Am J Ophthalmol. 2018 Aug;192:104-112. doi: 10.1016/j.ajo.2018.05.004. Epub 2018 May 12. PMID: 29763611