Keratoplasty

Keratoplasty

 Keratoplasty procedure is used in the event that there is an abnormality in the cornea of the eye, what does corneal fixation mean and how is this process performed, here is this article for the details of the corneal fixation process.

 Keratoplasty is an outpatient procedure used to treat keratoconus and some other conditions that may cause a weakening of the cornea.

 

 And with the question of Dr. Muhammad Hantira - Honorary Assistant Professor - Department of Ophthalmology - Umm Al-Qura University - Saudi Arabia
 Explain that the cornea is stabilized by creating new collagen fibers within the cornea, which leads to a better stabilization of the cornea.

 This procedure is done with riboflavin, known as vitamin B, followed by ultraviolet light.

 Types of keratoplasty

 There are two basic types of corneal fixation, they are:

 

•    Fixation of the cornea by removing the epithelium
 It is done by removing the thin outer layer of the cornea, known as the epithelium, which facilitates the passage of riboflavin through the corneal tissue.

 

•    Fixation of the cornea without removing the epithelium
  This type is called corneal epithelial fixation.

 How to pre-evaluate the corneal fixation?

 Dr. Hantereh evaluates the patient before performing the corneal fixation procedure, to ensure the patient's readiness for the operation.

 The doctor measures corneal thickness, visual acuity, and eye health in general, and in addition, the doctor determines the condition of the eye to ensure the patient is ready for this procedure.

 What are the procedures for corneal fixation?

 The corneal fixation process takes place in Dr. Hantereh's clinic, as he begins by applying numbing drops to the eye and then applying drops of riboflavin, in order to facilitate better absorption of light from the cornea, as the absorption process takes approximately half an hour.

 After that, light is shed on the eye, and it is worth noting that the procedure is painless, especially with the presence of anesthesia, and it should be noted that the operation takes from an hour to an hour and a half only.

 What are the instructions that must be followed after the corneal fixation?

 There are some procedures that the patient must do after the corneal fixation procedure, as these procedures include the following:

 

•    Using antibiotic drops and steroid drops, as they remain for about a week after the operation.
•    Using artificial tear drops for relatively long periods of time after the procedure.
•    Putting contact lens dressings in the eye, in order to ensure the comfort of the eye, and it should be noted that these dressings should be replaced if they fall out.
•    To see the doctor continuously in the first period after the operation.
•    Be careful not to rub the eyes for five days after the operation.
•    Wearing sunglasses, especially when you have photosensitivity.
•    See a doctor immediately if there is severe pain or some unexplained symptoms.

 What are the complications that may result from the corneal fixation?

 Some complications may occur as a result of the corneal fixation process, as these complications include the following:

 

•    Destruction of the cornea or external epithelium.
•    Eye swelling or pain.
•    Infection in the eye.
•    Vision problems, such as blurry vision.