[Developments in corneal transplants: lamellar techniques emerging]

Corneal transplants are the most frequently performed human transplant procedure. In the last decade, we have seen large developments in the field of corneal transplant surgery. Currently, several techniques are being used in the Netherlands, each with its own advantages and disadvantages and with distinct indications. In penetrating keratoplasty all layers of the cornea are replaced by a donor cornea. In so-called lamellar corneal transplantation only the affected layer of the cornea is replaced by donor tissue. The developments in corneal transplantation surgery have resulted in an improved prognosis in terms of vision and fewer complications.