Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK), also called a full-thickness corneal transplant, is a surgical procedure used to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor corneal tissue. It may be recommended when corneal scarring, advanced keratoconus, severe corneal infection, injury, or other corneal conditions significantly affect vision and cannot be adequately managed with medicines, contact lenses, or other treatments.
Who May Need Penetrating Keratoplasty?
An eye specialist may consider corneal transplant surgery when the cornea becomes cloudy, severely irregular, scarred, or structurally weakened. Common conditions that may require PK include advanced keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, deep corneal scars, certain infections, and complications following previous eye surgery or injury. A detailed eye examination helps determine whether PK or another corneal treatment is more appropriate.
How Is the Procedure Performed?
During PK, the surgeon carefully removes the affected central portion of the cornea and replaces it with appropriately matched donor corneal tissue. The transplanted tissue is secured using very fine sutures. The procedure is performed under appropriate anaesthesia, and the surgical approach depends on the patient's eye condition and overall health.
Recovery After Corneal Transplant
Recovery after penetrating keratoplasty takes time, and vision may improve gradually over several months. Patients need regular follow-up appointments so the doctor can monitor healing, eye pressure, corneal clarity, and signs of complications. Prescribed eye drops and careful protection of the eye are important during recovery. Sutures may remain for an extended period and are removed or adjusted when clinically appropriate.