Cornea Services

The cornea is the outermost part of eye. This clear, transparent membrane covers other eye anatomy including the iris and pupil. The cornea functions as a protector for other eye components and also provides the eye most of its optical power. The shape, or curvature, of the cornea determines how light enters the eye. Astigmatism, for example, is caused by an irregularly shaped cornea.

DSAEK

DSAEK (Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) – is a corneal transplant technique where the unhealthy, diseased, posterior portion of a patient’s cornea is removed and replaced with healthy donor tissue obtained from an eye bank. Unlike conventional corneal transplant surgery, the DSAEK procedure utilizes a much smaller surgical incision and requires no corneal sutures. DSAEK usually results in more rapid visual recovery and also reduces the risk of sight threatening complications that may occur with a corneal transplant, such as intraoperative expulsive hemorrhage or post operative traumatic would rupture.

INTACS

INTACS are prescription inserts that are used for the treatment of keratoconus. Keratoconus is a condition that results in a progressive thinning of the cornea. As the cornea continues to thin, it typically becomes shaped like a cone, which distorts the vision. INTACS work by reshaping the cornea to a more normal shape. The goal is to allow patients to be successfully fitted with contact lenses or glasses again so that vision can be restored. In the past when contact lenses could no longer be fit, a corneal transplant was the only option to attempt to restore vision. Now, INTACS offer an alternative to restoring vision and potentially defer the need for a corneal transplant.

Minor Injuries & Infections

Due to its anatomical position, the cornea is prone to many types of injuries. From superficial scrapes to embedded foreign bodies, without proper eye protection and safety, the cornea may be the victim of various types of eye injuries. Many minor scrapes or scratches may be treated with topical antibiotic drops or ointments. Sometimes, placing a pressure patch or bandage contact lens over an injured cornea is required for proper healing.

Contact Lens-Induced Problems

Improper contact lens care or over-use can contribute to various corneal conditions. Corneal ulcers are caused by corneal tissue loss, that can occur due to bacterial or viral infection. Proper contact lens maintenance and wearing contact lenses as directed can help avoid painful corneal problems.

Cornea Transplant

Transplanting corneal tissue from a donor to a recipient is done to remove a damaged or scarred cornea and replace it with clear corneal tissue. Patients with corneal diseases, including corneal dystrophy where the cornea becomes cloudy and reduces vision, and keratoconus where the corneal tissue thins and becomes cone-shaped, are sometimes candidates for corneal transplants.