Cornea & Anterior Segment

Corneal Diseases and Corneal Transplantation

The Cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye that plays a
crucial role in focusing light and maintaining clear vision. Any disease or damage to the cornea
can lead to pain, scarring, and significant visual impairment. The Cornea Department
provides specialized evaluation and management for a wide range of corneal disorders, using
advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options.

Common Corneal Diseases

• Corneal Ulcers: Open sores on the corneal surface caused by infections,
  injuries, or improper contact lens use. Symptoms include redness, pain, discharge, and blurred
  vision.
• Corneal Dystrophies: Inherited conditions where abnormal material builds up
  in the cornea, leading to cloudy vision and discomfort.
• Degenerative Disorders: Age-related or environmental changes that cause
  thinning, irregularity, or opacity of the cornea, such as keratoconus or pellucid marginal
  degeneration.
• Traumatic and Post-Surgical Scarring: Injuries or previous surgeries may
  cause corneal opacity, affecting transparency and clarity of vision.

Diagnostic Evaluation

Patients with corneal diseases are examined using modern equipment such as
slit-lamp biomicroscopy, corneal topography,
pachymetry, and anterior segment OCT. These tests help
determine the extent of damage and guide appropriate treatment.

Treatment and Medical Management

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition and may include:

• Topical antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals for infectious keratitis
• Lubricating drops and anti-inflammatory medications for dryness or irritation
• Corneal collagen cross-linking for keratoconus to halt progression
• Superficial keratectomy or laser procedures to remove surface opacities

Corneal Transplantation (Keratoplasty)

In advanced cases where medical treatment cannot restore clarity, a
corneal transplant may be recommended. Patients requiring this procedure are
registered and placed on a waiting list. Once a suitable donor corneal tissue
becomes available, surgery is scheduled on an outpatient basis.

• Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK): Full-thickness corneal replacement.
• Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK/DSEK/DMEK): Partial-thickness transplants
  targeting specific corneal layers.