Corneal Transplant
The cornea is the first transparent lens of the eye, which is like a dome on the outermost part of the eye. In certain diseases this cornea becomes opaque and does not allow vision. In this situation, corneal transplant surgery is required.
A penetrating corneal transplant involves removing the central 7 or 8 millimeters of the patient's cornea and replacing it with a donor cornea.
This surgery allows light to re-enter the eye, allowing the patient to see.
This surgery is performed when the layer of the cornea called the stroma is very opaque and cannot possibly become transparent again, or when it is very weakened, as in very advanced cases of keratoconus.
Corneal Endothelial Transplant
This new surgical technique consists of transplanting only the innermost layers of the cornea, so that the outer part remains the same as the patient's (it is not necessary to make a 360-degree circular incision, but rather a small one of only 5 mm).
The appearance of the postoperative eye is practically the same as that of a normal eye, without surgery.
It is a technique that requires the use of special equipment to remove the delicate, deep layers of the cornea, both from the recipient and the donor, and then implant it inside the eye.
Among the main advantages of this type of transplant are:
- Much faster visual recovery.
- Less distortion of vision.
- Much lower chance of rejection.
This technique can be used when the innermost layer of the cornea (the endothelium) is damaged, but the stroma (the thicker layer of the cornea) is healthy. If the stroma is affected, a penetrating (total) corneal transplant is required.
It's a surgery that has helped thousands of people regain their vision, and that's why it's so important for us all to be aware that donating our organs after our death is something we should share with our families so that other people in need can benefit from it, bringing a ray of hope to other lives.
This type of total corneal transplant requires a full-thickness circular incision, which can open in the event of trauma. It also carries certain associated risks, such as rejection by the recipient or the development of astigmatisms that distort the patient's vision.
This innovative surgery allows these patients to have a very high chance of regaining their vision.
Dr. Virgilio Galvis' experience and professionalism have made this a reality in our city, benefiting patients in the Department of Santander and throughout eastern Colombia.
While a total transplant requires a 360-degree full-thickness incision, an endothelial transplant only requires a small superior incision, which makes eye recovery much faster.