Health A-Z

Keratoplasty, also known as corneal transplant surgery, is a procedure used to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy cornea from a donor. Here's an overview of symptoms, treatment plans, and diagnosis testing related to keratoplasty.

1. Blurred vision: Difficulty seeing objects clearly due to irregularities or damage to the cornea.
2. Eye pain or discomfort: Sensations of pain, irritation, or foreign body sensation in the eye, especially if the cornea is damaged.
3. Photophobia: Increased sensitivity to light, which may cause discomfort or pain in bright environments.
4. Decreased visual acuity: Reduced ability to see clearly, even with corrective lenses.
5. Corneal scarring: Visible cloudiness or opacity in the cornea, which may affect vision quality.

1. Pre-operative evaluation: Your eye doctor will determine if you're a suitable candidate for keratoplasty based on your symptoms, eye examination findings, and diagnostic test results.
2. Surgery: During the keratoplasty procedure, the damaged or diseased cornea is removed and replaced with a healthy donor cornea. The surgery may involve different techniques, such as penetrating keratoplasty (full-thickness transplant) or lamellar keratoplasty (partial-thickness transplant).
3. Post-operative care: After surgery, you'll need to follow your doctor's instructions for post-operative care, which may include using eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing, wearing a protective eye shield, and avoiding activities that could strain or injure the eye.
4. Follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up visits with your eye doctor are essential to monitor your progress, evaluate the success of the transplant, and address any complications or concerns.

1. Comprehensive eye examination: Your eye doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation of your eyes, including visual acuity testing, slit-lamp examination, and measurement of intraocular pressure.
2. Corneal topography: This imaging technique maps the curvature and shape of the cornea, helping to identify irregularities or abnormalities.
3. Pachymetry: Measurement of corneal thickness, which is important for assessing corneal health and determining eligibility for keratoplasty.
4. Endothelial cell count: This test evaluates the density of endothelial cells on the inner surface of the cornea, which is crucial for maintaining corneal clarity and function.
5. Specular microscopy: This imaging technique allows for detailed examination of the corneal endothelium, helping to assess its health and function.