Diagnosis, treatment and surgical management of complex corneal conditions, including keratoconus and corneal transplantation.
What Is Corneal Disease?
The cornea is the transparent front part of the eye that plays a crucial role in focusing vision. Diseases of the cornea can lead to pain, distorted vision, and in some cases, significant vision loss. Newcastle Eye Centre provides comprehensive care for patients with a wide range of corneal disorders, from mild irritation to advanced degenerative conditions requiring surgical intervention.
Our ophthalmologists specialise in the diagnosis and management of corneal disease and offer both medical and surgical treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs.
Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward into a cone shape, leading to distorted and reduced vision. It often begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can worsen over time if left untreated.
Treatment options include:
- Prescription glasses Often used in the early stages to correct minor visual distortion.
- Soft or hard contact lenses Including rigid gas-permeable and scleral lenses to better focus light onto the retina.
- Collagen cross-linking (CXL) A non-invasive treatment using riboflavin eye drops and UV-A light to strengthen corneal tissue and halt disease progression.
- Intracorneal ring segments Small implants (e.g., Kerarings or Intacs) inserted into the cornea to improve its shape and reduce visual distortion.
- Corneal transplantation In advanced cases, partial or full-thickness corneal grafts may be required. Our surgeons specialise in Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) & Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK).
Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly reduce the likelihood of requiring a corneal transplant.
Corneal Transplant Surgery
When the cornea becomes severely damaged or diseased, a corneal transplant may be the most effective option for restoring vision. Newcastle Eye Centre offers expertise in modern corneal transplant techniques, including:
- Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) A partial-thickness transplant that preserves the patient’s healthy inner corneal layers.
- Endothelial Keratoplasty (e.g., DSAEK, DMEK) Selective replacement of the innermost corneal layer for patients with endothelial dysfunction.
- Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) Full-thickness corneal grafting in cases where deeper damage is present.
Each surgical option is selected based on the patient’s specific condition and overall eye health. Our surgeons work closely with referring optometrists and other eye care providers to coordinate ongoing care and maximise visual outcomes.
Resources
For more information on keratoconus and corneal transplants, visit:
Clinical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every individual’s condition is unique, and the details presented here may not apply to your personal situation. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your health or treatment options. Reliance on this information is solely at your own risk.