Understanding Corneal Scarring
Corneal scarring occurs when the outermost layer of the eye, the cornea, sustains significant damage. While minor abrasions typically heal without issue, major injuries can lead to scar tissue formation, impacting vision and eye health.
What Causes Corneal Scars?
Corneal scars can result from various factors, including:
• Improper contact lens use
• Deep scratches or lacerations
• Burns
• Certain diseases like shingles and syphilis
• Severe dry eye
• Infections (bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic)
• Corneal ulcers
• Corneal dystrophies
Symptoms of Corneal Scarring
Common symptoms associated with corneal scarring include:
• Blurred vision
• Eye pain
• Burning or scratching sensation
• Foreign body sensation
• Light sensitivity
• Redness
• Eyelid swelling
• Excessive tearing
Diagnosing Corneal Scars
Ophthalmologists use various methods to diagnose corneal scarring:
• Comprehensive eye examination
• Slit lamp examination
• Ophthalmoscopy
• Fluorescein eye stain
Treatment Options for Corneal Scarring
Depending on the severity and location of the scar, several treatment options are available:
Laser Surgery: Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK)
PTK uses an excimer laser to treat superficial corneal scars. This procedure can help reduce opacity and improve corneal irregularities.
Corneal Transplantation
For deeper or more severe scars, corneal transplantation may be necessary. Options include:
• Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP): Full-thickness corneal transplant
• Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Replaces the epithelium, Bowman’s layer, and stroma while preserving the patient’s endothelium
• Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK): Replaces the endothelium and Descemet membrane
Artificial Cornea
In some cases, a combination of donor tissue and synthetic material may be used to replace the damaged cornea.
Innovative Approaches to Corneal Repair
Researchers and eye specialists continue to explore new techniques for treating corneal scarring:
• Lamellar resection with bandage contact lens placement
• Selective lamellar transplantations
• Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK)
Choosing the Right Treatment
The most appropriate treatment for corneal scarring depends on various factors, including:
• Scar depth and location
• Overall eye health
• Patient’s medical history
• Visual acuity goals
Working closely with an experienced ophthalmologist is crucial to determine the best course of action for each individual case.