Corneal Grafting

Causes for Damage

• Severe trauma

• Congenital abnormalities

• Childhood infections like measles

• Degenerative diseases due to exposure to harsh light

Types of corneal grafts

Partial thickness or Lamella grafts are used to treat conditions of the cornea where the damage is mostly restricted to the front surface of the cornea and only the front part of the cornea is replaced.

Full thickness or penetrating grafts are more commonly used and result in the whole of the cornea being replaced.

Post Operation

• Eye may water and be sensitive to light

• Eyesight is blurred immediately after surgery

• Sight will fluctuate due to the healing process

• Cornea shape may change and necessitate glasses after a few months

• There is absolutely no change in the physical appearance of the eye

After the obligatory urine, blood, and occasionally ECG tests have ruled out any difficulties, the procedure is carried out. The core portion of the cornea is taken out and removed throughout the hour-long procedure. The donor cornea, which has received antimicrobial treatment, is used to replace it. It will take at least a year for the wound to fully heal, and the tiny stitches could be left in place for up to two years. Following surgery, an eye pad and a shield made of protective plastic are placed over the eye. After the surgery, this is removed, and regular activities can pick back up as soon as possible. In a few hours, the patient goes back home.

• Do not rub or touch the eye

• Apply prescribed medication strictly according to schedule

• Avoid smoky and dusty rooms, which can cause irritation.

• Wear sunglasses if the eye is light sensitive

• Do not play contact sports and swimming in particular. Ask the doctor if you are unclear which sports you should avoid

• You will need at least 2-4 weeks off work, but again this will be discussed with you on an individual basis.

• Avoid driving until the doctor tells you otherwise

• Stick to your follow up appointments to check for other problems lind cataract retinal detachment

• Return to the hospital immediately if you have

• Increased pain

• Increased redness

• Increased watering or discharge

• Further reduction in the vision