Cornea Clinic


Understanding Modern Corneal Transplantation Techniques





Corneal transplantation surgery, also known as keratoplasty, is a procedure aimed at restoring vision by replacing a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea. Over the years, advancements in surgical techniques have revolutionized corneal transplantation, leading to improved outcomes and enhanced patient satisfaction. This informative guide aims to provide patients with a comprehensive understanding of the current techniques used in corneal transplantation surgery.



PEnetrating Keratoplasty (PK)





Penetrating keratoplasty (PK), also known as full-thickness corneal transplantation, is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring vision by replacing a damaged or diseased cornea with a full thickness healthy donor cornea.

Why Penetrating Keratoplasty is Performed:

PK is typically recommended for patients with corneal conditions such as:

- Keratoconus with scarring, such as post hydrops

- Corneal scarring from injury or infection

- Corneal dystrophies / Corneal degeneration involving all the layers of the cornea.

The goal of PK is to improve visual acuity, alleviate symptoms such as blurred vision or glare, and enhance overall quality of life.



Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK)





In DALK, only the diseased or damaged anterior layers of the cornea are replaced with donor tissue, while preserving the patient's endothelium. This technique is particularly suitable for conditions such as keratoconus and corneal scars.



Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSaek)





DSAEK is a minimally invasive form of Endothelial Keratoplasty, wherein the inner layer of the dysfunctional cornea is replaced with healthy donor tissue. As only 10% of donor corneal tissue is transplanted the risk of rejection is significantly lowered compared to PK. Absence of incision or sutures allow faster visual recovery with this technique.



Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK)





DMEK is a minimally invasive form of Endothelial Keratoplasty. Compared to DSAEK, in DMEK only the inner layer of donor cornea ie the Descemet Membrane with healthy endothelial cells is transplanted. Commonly performed for Fuchs endothelial dystrophy or Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, DMEK has a faster rate of visual recovery and the lowest risk of rejection of donor cornea.



Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad 500096, Telangana



Reach us - +91 9866076750 / 8465076750
Emal corneaclinic_hyd@apollohospitals.com , rajeshfogla@gmail.com


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