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Modern Corneal Transplantation Techniques

Lamellar and full-thickness corneal grafting for visual rehabilitation in corneal disease.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Modern Corneal Transplantation Techniques?

Corneal transplantation (keratoplasty) replaces a diseased cornea with donor tissue to restore transparency, regularity, and refractive function.

Selective lamellar techniques have largely replaced full-thickness penetrating keratoplasty: deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) preserves the host endothelium for stromal disease, while Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) replace only the endothelium in Fuchs dystrophy and bullous keratopathy.

Outcomes depend on indication, donor quality, surgical technique, and lifelong topical steroid management with vigilance for rejection and graft failure.

Symptoms

Progressive blurred vision
Glare and halos
Photophobia
Persistent corneal pain or foreign body sensation
Visible corneal opacity or scarring
Worsening contact lens intolerance
Recurrent corneal erosion

Risk Factors

Advanced keratoconus
Fuchs endothelial dystrophy
Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy
Corneal scarring after infection or trauma
Failed prior corneal graft
Stromal dystrophies
Chemical or thermal corneal burns

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Best-corrected vision loss from corneal disease
  • Progressive endothelial decompensation
  • Painful bullous keratopathy
  • Severe keratoconus with contact lens intolerance
  • Graft failure or rejection signs
  • Persistent corneal scarring after infection
  • Acute corneal hydrops not resolving

Treatment Methods

01
Preoperative tomography and endothelial cell count
02
DMEK or DSAEK for endothelial dysfunction
03
DALK for stromal disease with healthy endothelium
04
Penetrating keratoplasty for full-thickness opacities
05
Long-term topical steroid taper with intraocular pressure monitoring
06
Suture and refractive management after PK and DALK
07
Lifelong follow-up for rejection and graft survival

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.