[Procurement of corneas for transplantation]

We prospectively studied all deaths in this hospital from July 1, 1989 through December 31, 1989 for possible eye donations. During this period 539 patients died, of whom, 219 were suitable candidates for donation, and 61 donations were obtained (11.3%). In the course of the study the procurement rate increased progressively as a result of a higher level of effort and awareness by the medical staff.