Corneal procedures involve surgical interventions on the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye that plays a critical role in focusing light onto the retina for clear vision. These procedures are often performed to correct vision issues, treat corneal diseases, or repair damage caused by injury or infection.
Corneal Transplantation
Corneal endothelial transplant surgery, also known as endothelial keratoplasty (EK/ DMEK/ DSAEK), is a specialised procedure that replaces the damaged innermost layer of the cornea, the endothelium, with healthy donor tissue. This surgery is typically performed to treat conditions like Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, where the corneal endothelium fails, leading to vision loss. The procedure involves removing the diseased endothelial cells and replacing them with a thin layer of donor corneal tissue, which helps restore the cornea’s clarity and restore vision.
Endothelial transplant surgery is minimally invasive, with a much shorter recovery time compared to traditional full-thickness corneal transplants, and it offers a high success rate in restoring vision.
Anterior lamellar transplants (DALK)
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) is a corneal transplant surgery that replaces the damaged outer and middle layers of the cornea while preserving the healthy inner layer, the endothelium. DALK is typically performed to treat conditions like keratoconus or corneal scarring that affect the front part of the cornea.
By retaining the patient’s endothelium, this procedure reduces the risk of rejection and offers a faster recovery compared to full-thickness corneal transplants. DALK is a highly effective surgery that can significantly improve vision while minimizing complications associated with traditional corneal transplants.
Full thickness corneal transplants (PK)
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP) is a comprehensive corneal transplant surgery that replaces the full thickness of the cornea with a donor cornea. This procedure is typically used to treat severe corneal conditions such as advanced keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, or significant corneal scarring. During PKP, the entire corneal thickness is removed and replaced with a carefully matched donor cornea to restore vision and improve corneal function.
Although PKP is highly effective in addressing severe corneal issues, it involves a longer recovery period and a higher risk of rejection compared to more selective transplant procedures. However, it remains a critical option for patients with extensive corneal damage.