Corneal transplantation

Corneal transplantation is a highly successful procedure for restoring sight in patients with corneal disease. The most common indication for transplantation is corneal edema following cataract extraction. A common problem following corneal transplantation is astigmatism, which often requires thick lenses for correction. The excimer laser holds promise for correcting postoperative astigmatism but is not yet in wide use. Rejection is a life-long risk and is most likely to occur during the first year. Topical corticosteroids are commonly used to decrease this risk. Frank corneal rejection must be recognized early and treated with intensive topical therapy.