The cornea is the clear outer layer of the eye that helps to protect the eye from dirt, germs and foreign bodies, and is vitally important for good vision. The curved shape of the cornea acts to refract or bend light when it enters the eye, helping to determine how well the eye focuses on objects close and in the distance.
What does cornea care involve?
The cornea can be damaged by a wide range of conditions and diseases, and it is important to visit a specialist to assess the best options for treatment.
Our experienced ophthalmologists at the Lions Eye Institute diagnose and treat many corneal conditions, including dry eye and blepharitis, keratoconus and Fuchs’ dystrophy.
We also treat patients for eye trauma that might cause corneal abrasion; corneal ulcers that can result from bacterial, viral or fungal infections; keratitis, an inflammation caused by infection or injury; and ocular herpes.
When is a corneal transplant necessary?
With diseases such as keratoconus, a corneal transplant might be necessary to replace a damaged cornea with a donated cornea. Corneal crosslinking is another treatment available for keratoconus, and in this process, a special type of ultraviolet light activates eye drops that are placed on the cornea to slow the progression of the disease.
What is CAIRS?
CAIRS, or Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments, is an advanced treatment option for keratoconus that uses small segments of donor corneal tissue, rather than synthetic implants, to reshape and strengthen the cornea. These segments are carefully inserted into the cornea to improve its curvature, helping to enhance vision and potentially delay or reduce the need for a full corneal transplant. As CAIRS uses natural tissue, it may offer better compatibility and fewer complications for some patients compared to traditional synthetic ring segments.
Cornea care at the Lions Eye Institute
Our clinicians are leaders in their fields. All sub-specialty trained, they provide our patients with the best possible care, using state-of-the-art equipment to help patients achieve a better quality of life.
If you’re concerned about your eye health, request an appointment today.
