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Carl J. Hanig, MD |
Procedures: Cornea
The cornea is the transparent front layer that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber. It refracts (bends) light with the lens to help the eye focus images on the retina. The cornea is fixed in its focusing power as opposed to the lens which adjusts to view near and far.
• Corneal Transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty, PKP) : This is done when a cornea has become clouded or misshapen from disease or injury. The donor corneal transplant is provided by the Central New York Eye Bank from a deceased individual having no known diseases which might affect the cornea. The patient's cornea is removed and the transplant cornea is sutured in place with multiple tiny sutures. This is an outpatient procedure that allows the patient to go home the same day. Healing and visual recovery is generally slow (months), but this varies depending on each patient's underlying condition.
• Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK): This is a recent modification of the corneal transplant technique which we have been using for the last several years. This technique is used for patients with swollen corneas due to insufficient cells on the back corneal surface. Only the back surface of the donor cornea is transplanted through a small incision. DSAEK reduces surgical risks and quickens visual rehabilitation.