Cornea / Anterior Segment

The cornea is a connective tissue that forms the anterior one-sixth of the eye. It is responsible for two-thirds of the focussing power of the eye. The lens within the eye is responsible for only one-third of the focussing power of the eye.

The cornea can be a site of infection. Contact lens wear can be associated with corneal infection. The cornea can also be subject to degeneration and changes in shape (keratoconus).

If the cornea ceases to function effectively in its two principal functions - focussing images and transmission of light – a corneal transplant may prove necessary.

Central corneal scarring from an infection	Regeneratio of pterygium	Hydrops in keratoconus

Corneal Transplantation

The commonest indications for corneal transplantation within the UK are: keratoconus; endothelial cell dysfunction; and infection. Although a corneal transplant is a technically demanding procedure, most of the effort in the post-operative phase is directed toward visual rehabilitation. Visual rehabilitation can be prolonged and, in some instances, it will take up to one year or more before the patient is seeing optimally once again. The principal issues in post-operative care are the management of astigmatism and the control of any rejection episodes.

Corneal transplant with a running suture	The same transplant. The suture is loosening at 4 o'clock and attracting mucus