In the modern world, the rapid development of medicine. Achievements are observed in all areas. This applies to surgical and therapeutic methods of treatment, diagnosis, scientific discoveries. Ophthalmology is no exception. With the advent of microsurgical technology , eye surgery has become much safer and more effective. The advantages of modern ophthalmology are a quick and painless recovery of vision. Corneal transplantation, which previously seemed impossible, is now being carried out in all specialized centers. As a result of keratoplasty, many people regain the ability to see the world around them.
What is a cornea transplant?
This operation has a scientific name - keratoplasty. It is also called corneal transplantation . Since this organ of vision does not have blood supply, in most cases it takes root and the operation is considered successful. After keratoplasty, vision is significantly improved or completely restored. Donor transplantation of the cornea is mainly common. Damaged parts or the organ as a whole are replaced. In some cases, transplantation is performed with artificial material. Most often, this operation takes place under general anesthesia. Nevertheless, some experts recommend keratoplasty using local anesthesia. The effectiveness of the operation is almost always observed, and complications after corneal transplantation are extremely rare. For these reasons, keratoplasty is a popular treatment method worldwide.
In what cases do corneal transplants?
Corneal transplant surgery is performed only according to strict indications. In most cases, injuries and inflammatory diseases become the cause of organ damage. In both cases, there is a significant visual impairment or complete loss of visibility (less often). Sometimes keratoplasty is performed for cosmetic purposes. The following reasons for the operation are distinguished:
- Belma on the eye. The causes can be both dystrophic diseases and injuries of the organ of vision.
- Retinopathy This refers to those forms that are not amenable to therapeutic treatment. These include dystrophic, bullous retinopathy.
- Corneal Injury May occur when various foreign bodies enter the eye.
- Chemical burns.
- Thinning of the corneal layer. It is observed with a disease such as keratoconus.
- Ulcerative and erosive defects.
- Scarring.
- Corneal clouding. Usually a consequence of laser procedures.
- Cosmetic defects.
Contraindications to keratoplasty
In most cases, eye microsurgery is a field of medicine that is widely available. Contraindications to operations on the organs of vision are rare. Keratoplasty is performed by anyone with the listed defects. There are no age restrictions for this operation. Nevertheless, 3 conditions are distinguished in which keratoplasty is prohibited. These include:
- Belma on the eye that have blood supply. The presence of blood vessels makes the operation of corneal transplantation ineffective.
- The combination of cataracts and increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma).
- Concomitant diseases in which there is a high probability of transplant rejection. These include immunological pathologies, decompensated diabetes mellitus.
What are the varieties of keratoplasty
Like most operations, keratoplasty can be performed in different ways. It depends on the type of transplant (donor or artificial cornea), the size and depth of the defect. Keratoplasty can be total or partial. In the first case, the entire cornea is replaced. In the second - parts of the organ, the size of the graft in this case is from 4 to 6 mm. In addition, subtotal retinoplasty is sometimes performed. It means replacing the cornea over almost the entire area, with the exception of a small rim (1-2 mm) located around the limb. Depending on the depth of the lesion, a through and layered transplant is isolated. In the first case, the defect occupies the entire thickness of the organ. Layered retinoplasty can be front and back (the outer or inner wall of the cornea is affected). Cadaveric material is used as a donor organ, including from newborns. An artificial transplant is made in special laboratories.
How to prepare for keratoplasty?
Eye microsurgery, like other types of surgical procedures, involves preparation before performing the intervention. First of all, it is necessary to carry out therapeutic treatment of inflammatory processes. This applies to any infections of the eye and eyelids (conjunctivitis, iridocyclitis). After treatment of the infection, a complete diagnosis of the organs of vision is carried out. An ophthalmologic examination, laboratory tests (OAC, OAM, blood biochemistry) are performed. It is also necessary to find out what pathologies the patient has. This is very important, as some diseases may be contraindications for surgery. On the eve of retinoplasty, it is necessary to observe the "hunger regimen".
Corneal Transplant Technique
Corneal transplantation surgery is performed using special microsurgical equipment. To perform retinoplasty, both traditional surgical intervention and a laser procedure are performed. In recent years, the second method is considered more preferable, since this reduces the postoperative period and reduces the risk of complications. Corneal transplantation has a specific technique. First, the patient is laid on the couch and anesthetized. After that, the eyelids and eyes are fixed (beyond the edge of the sclera). The next step is the removal of the damaged organ or part thereof (performed by a laser or surgical instrument). Next, corneal transplantation is performed. The final stage involves examining the sutures, examining for complications.
Postoperative period with keratoplasty
After a corneal transplant, the patient should be under medical supervision for at least several hours. Despite the fact that the patient is allowed to go home, he needs to be examined by an ophthalmologist. Also, after the operation, a gentle regimen for the eyes is recommended (minimum strain on the organ of vision). With surgical correction, the sutures are removed after a few months (up to a year). Possible complications of keratoplasty are bleeding, inflammation, and transplant rejection. In these cases, unpleasant sensations, photophobia, itching, etc. appear. Any symptoms are the reason for an urgent appeal to an ophthalmologist.
Corneal transplantation: expert reviews
According to doctors, retinoplasty is a safe and effective method of restoring vision. It is recommended to all patients who do not have contraindications. Patients are satisfied with the operation. Vision persists for many years after transplantation, and complications are very rare. At the moment, laser corneal transplantation is considered predominant. The cost of the operation depends on the choice of the clinic. The average price is 50-70 thousand rubles per eye. When choosing an artificial transplant, the cost doubles.