This is an image of corneal scarring after surface laser vision correction.
It is beautifully demarcated within the optical zone.
I treated a lot of this in the 1990s when it was rife: laser surgery had come in and everyone fired their laser.
It is much less common, but can still occur today.
It causes a degradation of vision despite a reasonable acuity: this patient had 6l9 vision but complained of vision loss.
Corneal scarring is a condition where the clear front surface of the eye (the cornea) becomes scarred or damaged. This can lead to vision problems, such as blurred vision, light sensitivity, and discomfort.
Treatment for corneal scarring can vary depending on the severity of the scarring and the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches to treating corneal scarring:
- Eye Drops: In some cases, eye drops can manage inflammation and reduce discomfort associated with corneal scarring.
- Contact Lenses: Specialized contact lenses, such as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, may be prescribed to improve vision and reduce the impact of corneal irregularities caused by scarring.
- Topical Medications: Depending on the cause of the scarring, your ophthalmologist may prescribe topical medications to address the underlying condition, such as infections or inflammation.
- Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty): In more severe cases where vision loss is significant, a corneal transplant may be necessary. During this procedure, the damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea.
- Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK): PTK is a laser procedure that can remove superficial corneal scars and smooth the corneal surface.
- Corneal Cross-Linking: This procedure is used to treat conditions like keratoconus, which can lead to corneal scarring. It involves using UV light and riboflavin drops to strengthen the cornea.
- Amniotic Membrane Transplantation: Amniotic membrane grafts can be used to promote healing and reduce inflammation in some cases of corneal scarring.
- Medications and Therapy: If the scarring is related to an underlying condition like herpes simplex virus infection, antiviral medications and other therapies may be needed.
It’s important to consult with a corneal specialist, like Dr Anthony Maloof for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific case of corneal scarring.
More information available at www.cornealtransplant.com.au
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