Corneal Transplants / Keratoplasty

Corneal Transplants / Keratoplasty

Introduction

Corneal transplantation, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea. This procedure is often recommended for patients with severe corneal diseases, scarring, or conditions like keratoconus that significantly impair vision.

Dr. Shiva Prasad Kakarla, a leading Eye Doctor in Bangalore, specializes in advanced corneal transplant techniques, offering patients the best possible outcomes. If you are searching for the Best Eye Hospital in Hosur Main Road, ensure that it provides expert care and advanced surgical options for keratoplasty.

Understanding the Cornea and Its Importance

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front part of the eye that plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina. Any damage, infection, or degenerative condition affecting the cornea can lead to blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and even blindness. When non-surgical treatments such as medications and specialized contact lenses fail, a corneal transplant becomes a viable solution.

Types of Corneal Transplants

There are different types of corneal transplant procedures depending on the extent of the damage and the specific condition of the patient. Dr. Shiva Prasad Kakarla, an experienced Eye Specialist in Krishna Nagar Layout, determines the most appropriate transplant technique based on individual patient needs.

Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)

• A full-thickness corneal transplant where the damaged cornea is completely replaced with a donor cornea.
• Recommended for severe corneal scarring or advanced keratoconus.
• Longer recovery time compared to partial transplants.

Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)

• A partial-thickness transplant that replaces only the outer and middle layers of the cornea, preserving the inner endothelial layer.
• Reduces the risk of graft rejection compared to PK.
• Suitable for patients with keratoconus or corneal scarring without endothelial damage.

Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK)

• Includes procedures like Descemet's Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet's Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK).
• Replaces only the innermost layer of the cornea, ideal for conditions like Fuchs' dystrophy and endothelial dysfunction.
• Faster recovery and better visual outcomes than full-thickness transplants.

Who Needs a Corneal Transplant?

A corneal transplant is recommended for individuals suffering from:

• Keratoconus – A progressive eye disorder causing corneal thinning and distortion.
• Corneal Scarring – Due to infections, trauma, or previous eye surgery.
• Fuchs' Dystrophy – A condition affecting the endothelial cells, leading to corneal swelling and vision impairment.
• Corneal Ulcers – Severe infections causing significant damage.
• Bullous Keratopathy – A condition where the cornea swells and loses transparency.

If you are experiencing any of these conditions, consulting an Eye Doctor in Bangalore like Dr. Shiva Prasad Kakarla can help determine whether a corneal transplant is the best option for restoring your vision.

The Corneal Transplant Procedure

The corneal transplant procedure involves several critical steps:

Pre-Surgical Evaluation

• A comprehensive eye examination, including corneal measurements and imaging, is performed.
• Donor tissue matching and health screening to ensure compatibility.

Surgical Procedure

• The surgery is typically performed under local or general anesthesia.
• The damaged corneal tissue is carefully removed, and the donor cornea is precisely placed and sutured.
• For endothelial keratoplasty, an air bubble technique is used to position the new corneal layer without stitches.

Post-Surgical Care and Recovery

• Eye drops and medications are prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation.
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing and visual improvement.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and protecting the eye from injury during the recovery period.

Success Rates and Risks

Corneal transplants have a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant vision improvement. However, potential risks include:

• Graft Rejection – The immune system may recognize the donor cornea as foreign and attack it.
• Infection – Proper post-operative care reduces the risk of infections.
• Astigmatism – Irregular corneal healing may lead to vision distortions, correctable with glasses or contact lenses.
• Glaucoma – Increased eye pressure may develop, requiring additional treatment.

To minimize complications, choosing the Best Eye Hospital in Hosur Main Road with expert ophthalmologists like Dr. Shiva Prasad Kakarla is crucial.

Post-Transplant Vision Correction

While corneal transplants restore clarity, some patients may still require vision correction. Options include:

• Eyeglasses or Contact Lenses – To correct residual refractive errors.
• Laser Eye Surgery – Procedures like LASIK may be performed after full healing.
• Specialty Contact Lenses – Scleral or hybrid lenses for improved vision in complex cases.

Conclusion

Corneal transplantation is a life-changing procedure that restores sight in individuals suffering from severe corneal diseases. With advancements in surgical techniques, patients now experience faster recovery and better visual outcomes.

If you or a loved one requires a corneal transplant, consult Dr. Shiva Prasad Kakarla, a renowned Eye Specialist in Krishna Nagar Layout. Visit the Best Eye Hospital in Hosur Main Road for expert evaluation and state-of-the-art corneal transplant services, ensuring the highest standard of eye care and vision restoration.