Cornea-external Diseases

The Cornea and Anterior Segment Service specializes in problems of the conjunctiva, the cornea, and the lens of the eye. Common problems include cataracts, corneal infections, all other corneal problems, dry eye, complications of cataract surgery, blepharitis and other abnormalities of the ocular surface. Surgical services include small incision sutureless cataract surgery, corneal transplantation, pterygium excision, repair of complications of cataract surgery, repair of trauma to the front of the eye, and secondary lens implantation.

The Cornea and Anterior Segment Service provides comprehensive ocular evaluations with special emphasis on the evaluation of cataracts and corneal problems. Special studies of the cornea may include specular microscopy, computerized topography, pachymetry and potential visual acuity testing which can often be performed during a single visit. The service is currently involved in the development of a new instrument that may allow for very early detection of cataracts and monitoring of their development. Other research interests include dry eye, blepharitis, and post-surgical inflammation.

Cataract and corneal surgery is done as an outpatient. The preferred technique for cataract surgery is small incision phacoemulsification using a foldable lens. A bifocal intraocular lens can be inserted in many patients if so desired. However, it is very important to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these lenses before proceeding with surgery. For those patients concerned about injections to numb the eye, a topical technique can be used to avoid these injections.

Corneal transplantation is also done on an outpatient basis. The patient does require frequent follow up visits for the first few months followed by less frequent visits over the next year. Corneal transplantation surgery does not heal as quickly as cataract surgery. Therefore, the time necessary to achieve the final best vision is very variable and is dependent on the original problem leading to the corneal transplant. Patients should expect a 6 to 12 month recovery following surgery. Some cases may need additional refractive procedures to correct post-operative astigmatism or other refractive errors.