Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK or DSAEK)
This type of Corneal Transplant is performed through a small incision, to remove and replace the inner cell layer of the cornea when it stops working properly. With this technique, Dr. Sise gently “strips” off the single diseased cell layer, called the Endothelium, and leaves the remaining cornea intact. Dr. Sise will then thinly slice a donor cornea from the eye bank and insert it through a small incision into the eye. An air bubble is used to unfold and position the donor tissue on the recipient’s cornea. The transplanted layer will attach to the patient’s cornea within a few days without any stitches or glue.
Corneal Transplants have become somewhat common in the United States as a treatment for damaged and cloudy corneas. Each year more than 40,000 people undergo Corneal Transplantation to restore their vision. If Dr. Sise finds that other methods of treating your corneal disease or corneal condition are unable to restore your vision, he will fully discuss the risks and benefits of Corneal Transplantation and take the time necessary to answer all of your questions.
