Aug12024
Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus

Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus: What You Need to Know

Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition where the clear front surface of the eye, cornea, thins and bulges into a cone-like shape. This distortion leads to blurred vision and increased sensitivity to light. For individuals with advanced keratoconus, a corneal transplant surgery can be a life-changing procedure. This blog provides an in-depth look into corneal transplants for keratoconus, covering everything from the surgery to recovery and success rates. With proper care, many patients can significantly improve their vision and quality of life.

Understanding Keratoconus

Keratoconus typically begins in the teenage years and can progress into the 20’s. It causes the cornea to become irregularly shaped, leading to irreversible vision problems with glasses or soft contact lenses. Early stages of keratoconus can often be managed with rigid gas-permeable lenses or other specialised contact lenses. However, a corneal transplant in severe cases may be necessary where these solutions no longer provide clear vision.

Corneal Transplant Surgery

Corneal transplant surgery, known as keratoplasty, involves replacing the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea. This procedure can restore vision and improve the appearance of a damaged or diseased cornea. It offers a chance for significantly improved vision and relief from debilitating symptoms when other treatments fail.

Corneal Transplant Surgery

  • Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty(DALK) : Replacing the outer and middle layers of the cornea.
  • Penetrating Keratoplasty(PK): Full thickness corneal transplant.

The Procedure

Pre-operative Preparations and Assessments

Before the surgery, patients undergo a thorough eye examination to assess the extent of corneal damage and determine suitability for a transplant. This includes measurements of corneal thickness, shape, and other eye health parameters. Patients may also need to undergo tests to ensure their health is good enough for the surgery and recovery.

Detailed Steps of the Surgery

The corneal transplant procedure is performed under local or general anaesthesia. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the surgery:

  • Anaesthesia: Local or general anaesthesia is administered to ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure.
  • Incision: The surgeon makes a circular cut to remove the diseased or damaged portion of the cornea.
  • Donor Cornea: A matching donor cornea is prepared from a recently deceased donor.
  • Grafting: The donor cornea is placed into the eye and secured with fine sutures. Depending on the individual healing process, these stitches will remain in place for several months or longer.
  • Closing: The eye is closed, and patched till the next day.

Duration and Anaesthesia Used During the Surgery

Corneal transplant surgery generally takes about 1 to 2 hours. The type of anaesthesia used depends on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s preference. Local anaesthesia numbs the eye area while keeping the patient awake, whereas general anaesthesia puts the patient to sleep during the procedure.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-operative care is crucial for the success of the corneal transplant. Patients should follow specific guidelines to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

  • Immediate Recovery: After the surgery, patients should rest, stay indoors and avoid strenuous activities that could strain the eyes.
  • Medication: Eye drops and possibly oral medications to prevent infection and control inflammation are prescribed.
  • Follow-up Visits: Regular check-ups with the ophthalmologist are necessary to monitor healing and manage potential complications.
  • Activity Restrictions: Patients should avoid rubbing their eyes and may need to wear protective goggles.

Success Rates and Risks

Corneal transplants have a high success rate, especially for conditions like keratoconus. According to studies, the success rate for corneal transplant surgery can be as high as 90% for keratoconus patients. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved. These may include:

  • Rejection: The immune system may recognise the donor cornea as foreign and attempt to reject it.
  • Infection: There is a high risk of infection to occur after surgery due to donor and suture related issues.
  • Astigmatism: Some patients may experience astigmatism due to irregularities in the corneal shape post-surgery.

Benefits of Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus

For individuals with keratoconus, a corneal transplant can offer several significant benefits:

  • Restored Vision: This is the primary benefit, which allows individuals to resume daily activities and improve their quality of life.
  • Pain Relief: For those experiencing pain due to corneal swelling and scarring, a transplant can provide relief.
  • Aesthetic Improvement: A successful corneal transplant can also improve the appearance of the eye, which can be a concern for some patients.

Corneal transplant surgery offers hope for those suffering from advanced keratoconus. Patients can make informed decisions about their eye health by understanding the procedure, recovery process, and potential benefits. With a high success rate and the potential to restore vision and quality of life, corneal transplants are a crucial option for those battling this progressive eye condition. At Maxivision Eye Hospitals, our exceptional service and experienced specialists ensure optimal care and successful outcomes. Schedule a consultation with us to discuss the best treatment options for you or your loved one.