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Corneal Transplants are some of the most common transplants in the United States. There are annually over 40,000 transplants being preformed around the US. Over 90% of all transplants preformed are successful and after the procedure sight is restored. The Medical term for corneal transplants is Keratoplasty. There are many reasons why one would need a corneal transplant the two most common reasons are below:
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Keratoconus -
Fuchs Dystrophy
These can cause cloudiness in the cornea often alters the natural curvatures of the cornea. They also reduce the quality of vision. In addition to these medical conditions these are a few other reasons for corneal transplants:
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Trauma -
Chemical Burns -
Bacteria -
Fungi and Protozoa
Often local anesthesia is used during this procedure. With local anesthesia the patient is numb around the area of the procedure, however they are still aware during the entire procedure. Additionally one could also use general anesthesia and be unconscious during the procedure. Often patients don't want to be aware during the procedure so Consult with your eye doctor to determine which way is best for you.
It is also very important that you speak with your physician on the risks of the corneal implant as well as the benefits. Many times if we hear enough good things and not the bad things we can convince ourselves that the procedure is right. However the decisions should be made only after knowing all the options and risks involved with the corneal implants. A few of the risks are:
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Infections -
Cataract Formation -
Glaucoma -
Retinal detachment
In rejection of the corneal transplants the immune systems fights off the donor tissue. Only 5-30% of corneal transplants result in rejections. Here are a few of the symptoms to look for after a corneal transplant to show the body maybe rejecting it:
You should check with your eye doctor if you are having any of these symptoms or have any questions proceeding your corneal transplant. In the end the average corneal transplant is successful and a better quality of life is experienced because of it!
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