How is corneal endothelial transplantation done?

Corneal endothelial transplantation is not complicated and is very similar to cataract surgery, in terms of incision location, surgery time and procedure. The incision is usually made in the area hidden by the eyelid, and the wound is not visible when the eye is normally open after surgery. The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia (anesthetic around the eye). 2 mm outside the black eye, 1/3-1/2 of the thickness of the white sclera is cut, and the tunneling knife is inserted into the clear cornea to peel off the endothelial layer, posterior elastic layer and part of the stroma, and the entire incision is made like an underground tunnel. The donor graft is implanted through the incision, unfolded within the eye and laid over the stroma. An amount of gas is also usually injected into the eye to hold the graft firmly over the stroma by the pressure generated by the gas, ensuring a tighter fit between the two.  The procedure is very short, usually taking only about 20-30 minutes. Since the procedure is performed using a tunnel incision and the incision length is only 3.25 mm, no sutures are usually required. There are some special cases that require sutures, such as patients with scarring on the edge of the cornea or sclera, which can interfere with the healing of the tunnel incision. If not sutured, the gas that is punched into the eye for support may leak out. In this case, only one suture is able to ensure the success of the procedure, and of course, the suture can be left in place.  Currently, there is more experience in endothelial grafting of the cornea. After one day of postoperative observation, if the graft piece fits well, the patient can be discharged the next or third day. Of course, if there is an exceptional condition or in time for the weekend it needs to be delayed.