Corneal Transplantation

Corneal Transplantation

Abstract

This seeks to provide a brief overview of Corneal Transplantation inclusive of presentation , causation , treatment , recovery complications , advances , etc . In doing this , we will define the cornea , its function , some diseases and diss affecting the cornea what corneal transplantation is used for , and type of problems that can develop from a corneal transplant . Then we will discuss the follow-up and risks /complications of this type of surgery . Finally we will discuss when to call a professional after corneal transplantation in conclusion we will look at the advances

p There will be at least three types of sources used during the course of this discussion . Most of these sources will be essays and articles written by medical specialists and researchers

Introduction

Corneal transplantation also referred to as corneal grafting or penetrating keratoplasty is a surgical procedure where a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced by donated corneal tissue which has been removed from a recently deceased individual having no known diseases which might affect the viability of the donated tissue . The cornea is the eye 's outermost layer . It is the clear , dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye . The surgical procedure is performed by ophthalmologists , these are medical doctors who specialize in eyes , and are often done on an outpatient basis , meaning that the patient goes home following surgery

The need for Corneal Transplantation /Causation

Corneal transplants are used to treat persistent corneal infections diseases that cloud the cornea (corneal dystrophies , traumatic corneal injuries and corneal scars that cannot be corrected by other therapies Some examples include : Bullous keratopathy , this is a progressive swelling and blistering of the cornea Keratoconus , an eye dis in which the middle of the cornea thins and eventually bulges outward severe corneal ulcers caused by bacterial , fungal , parasitic or viral eye infections severe traumatic injuries that pierce or cut the cornea chemical burns of the eye Corneal scars Fuchs 's endothelial dystrophy a progressive eye disease that causes swelling , cloudiness and blistering of the cornea failure or rejection of a previous corneal transplant

Preparation for the Procedure

It should be noted that in the event that the patient has any uncontrolled eye problems that might threaten the success of the surgery , the doctor will first treat them before surgery . There will also be a need for a basic medical evaluation to confirm that the patient is healthy enough to have the transplant procedure . The patient will be given instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before surgery . An antibiotic eye drops to be used before the surgery may be prescribed by the doctor . Also as part of the preparation for surgery the doctor will need to know about any medications the patient is taking , including over-the-counter medications and natural or herbal remedies . The patient might have to discontinue or decrease certain drugs before surgery . This is because some medicines can increase the risk of bleeding or other surgical complications The local eye bank is expected to process and evaluate...