The cornea is a transparent, curved tissue, similar to a clock glass, covering the front of the colored part of the eye. It plays a crucial role in vision by focusing light onto the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
Corneal Transplant: Reasons for the Procedure
A corneal transplant is a delicate surgical procedure that replaces a damaged cornea with a healthy one from a deceased donor. It is used to treat various conditions affecting the cornea, which may lead to vision impairment or blindness.
Main Reasons for Needing a Corneal Transplant:
Corneal Diseases:
Keratitis: May cause scars and deformities in the cornea, affecting vision.
Keratoconus: Causes thinning and bulging of the cornea, leading to distorted vision.
Corneal Dystrophy: Causes thinning and loss of corneal cells, impairing vision.
Trachoma: A bacterial infection that can lead to blindness.
Injuries:
Deep Injuries: Can cause scarring and corneal deformities.
Chemical Burns: May damage the cornea, affecting vision.
Complications from Eye Surgeries:
Corneal Rejection: After a previous transplant, a repeat procedure may be needed.
Post-Surgery Keratitis: Can cause scars and corneal deformities.
Other Conditions:
Congenital Corneal Defects: Such as congenital keratoconus.
Systemic Diseases: Such as Sjögren’s syndrome, which may lead to corneal dryness.
Types of Corneal Transplant:
Full Corneal Transplant: Replacement of the entire cornea with a donor cornea.
Anterior Corneal Transplant: Replacement of only the front part of the cornea.
Posterior Corneal Transplant: Replacement of only the back part of the cornea.
Epithelial Stem Cell Transplant: Replacement of only the outer corneal layer.
Benefits of Corneal Transplant:
Significant improvement in vision
Restoration of color perception
Improved quality of life
Reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses
Important Note:
A corneal transplant may not be suitable for everyone. Patients with certain conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or active infections, may not be candidates.
Corneal transplantation is a complex procedure that requires careful medical care. Patients should consult Lasheen Eye Center for expert advice to determine the best course of action.
Why Choose Lasheen Eye Center?
Lasheen Eye Center is one of the leading eye care centers in Egypt and the Middle East. The center features a highly skilled team of ophthalmologists specialized in corneal transplants and uses the latest medical