Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) is a specialized corneal transplant procedure used to treat certain corneal conditions affecting the front and middle layers of the cornea while preserving the patient's healthy inner endothelial layer. It may be considered for conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scars, and selected corneal disorders where the endothelium remains functional.
During DALK surgery, the damaged corneal tissue is carefully removed and replaced with healthy donor corneal tissue. Because the patient's own endothelium is preserved, DALK can offer an alternative to a full-thickness corneal transplant in appropriately selected patients.
Who May Need DALK?
An eye specialist may recommend DALK treatment for patients with advanced keratoconus, non-deep corneal scars, or other anterior corneal diseases that significantly affect vision and cannot be adequately managed with glasses, contact lenses, or other treatments.
Recovery After DALK
Recovery varies from person to person. Vision may remain blurred during the early healing period and gradually improve as the cornea stabilizes. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor healing, manage medications, and assess vision. Patients should follow their ophthalmologist's instructions regarding eye drops, activity restrictions, and eye protection.