What is endothelial keratoplasty (EK)?

In recent years, new cornea transplant procedures have been developed that allow surgeons to replace only the damaged layer of the cornea instead of the entire thickness of the cornea. These surgical techniques are known as Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK), cornea transplants. Lions Eye Bank of West Central Ohio uses leading edge technology to prepare Endothelial Keratoplasty tissue grafts for surgeons prior to the transplant surgery.

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What are the benefits of EK surgeries?

Currently, the most common grafts prepared for surgeons are Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK). These EK Surgeries offer better patient outcomes and faster healing times, allowing patients to get their vision back faster.

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What is pre-loaded tissue?

More recently, eye banks including Lions Eye Bank of West Central Ohio, have been able to develop and collaborate ways to offer surgeons tissue grafts that are pre-loaded into inserters. This method saves valuable operating room time and allows for a more efficient surgical process for both the surgeon and patient.

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How has the demand for various tissues changed?

Overall, the demand for full thickness (PKP) cornea transplants have declined in the United States in the last decade. While over the same time period, corneas used for Endothelial Keratoplasty in the United States have increased. Full thickness, (PKP) corneas are still largely used in international countries for transplant. However, some countries have developed ophthalmology programs that are offering EK procedures to their patients.