Abstract:
Introduction. Corneal pathologies rank among the top three causes of blindness
worldwide. Various degenerative, dystrophic, inflammatory, traumatic, or infectious
conditions can affect the clarity and integrity of the cornea. One radical treatment
method for these pathologies is keratoplasty, a surgical procedure to replace the
pathological cornea with a healthy one from a donor. Annually, approximately
185,000 corneal transplants are performed worldwide.
Objective of the Study. To highlight the pathologies affecting the ocular surface that
require corneal transplantation, and to evaluate the dynamics of the number of
corneal and amniotic membrane transplant surgeries over the years 2022 and 2023
at the Ophthalmology and Optometry Clinic of USMF "Nicolae Testemițanu."
Methods and Materials. An analysis study based on the Tissue Transplant Agency
Reports in the Department of Ophthalmology and Clinical Optometry for the last 2
years, within the Transplant Center of IMSP SCM "Sf. Treime."
Results. In 2022, 9 corneal transplant surgeries were performed, and in 2023, 18
transplants. The main indication for these interventions was penetrating corneal
ulcers as an emergency indication, and certain pathologies leading to irreversible
corneal opacification. Additionally, corneal transplants were also implemented in
cases of acute bacterial and viral keratitis complicated by ulceration or opacification.
Over these 2 years, 174 cryopreserved amniotic membrane transplants were
performed to enhance corneal epithelialization and reduce inflammation, especially
in cases of keratitis.
Conclusion During the years 2022-2023, a total of 201 tissue transplants on the
ocular surface were performed, including 27 corneal grafts and 174 amniotic
membrane grafts. There was a 19% increase in the number of transplant surgeries
in 2023.
