Corneal Repair | iCare Vision (2024)

The eye is one of the most remarkable organs in the human body. The cornea – the clear front surface of the eye – is primarily known for allowing light to enter the eye; but the cornea plays double duty with another very important function. The cornea provides approximately 65-75 percent of the focusing power of the eye.

The eyes, in conjunction with other bodily functions, work hard to keep vision clear and rely heavily on natural regeneration to self-repair and heal when necessary. This is especially true for the cornea since it stands on the front line and can endure wounds, scars, erosion problems and other issues.

It’s important to know that, depending on the severity of the condition, corneas can be repaired.

Learn about corneal repair and how amniotic tissue (stem cells) can address corneal wounds and scars, poor healing on the eye surface with corneal erosion problems, and severe dry eye:

Symptoms of Corneal Conditions

Despite injury or disease, the cornea can still repair itself quickly. However, there are situations where damage is too severe for the cornea to heal on its own – such as with a deep injury to the cornea.

The following symptoms may indicate that the cornea has sustained a substantial infection, injury or disease:

Recurrent Corneal Erosion (RCE)

Recurrent corneal erosion is a very painful, chronic, relapsing condition on the front part of the cornea where the cornea’s outermost layer of epithelial cells fail to attach to the underlying basem*nt membrane.

Because the corneal tissue is one of the most nerve sensitive areas of the body, the pain can be nearly unbearable.

RCE can cause corneal scarring – among other issues – that can lead to visual changes. Patients can become debilitated by the pain and experience visual deficits.

Typically, there is a family history of recurrent corneal erosions, and they usually occur in one eye in the middle of the night or immediately after opening the eyes in the morning.

Treatment can vary with this condition. In some patients, stem cells and patching have been shown to effectively address this corneal issue.

Stem Cells & the Cornea

Simply put: Clear vision requires a clear cornea.

Since the surface of the cornea constantly renews itself, it is able to support an unblemished, uniformly refractive surface. When cells are washed away from the surface, new ones form from the small number of stem cells that are located at the edge of the cornea.

When these stem cells are damaged, the renewal and repair process is compromised and suspended. With a complete or partial loss of these stem cells – also known as limbal stem-cell deficiency (LSCD) – an opaque conjunctiva can grow over the cornea and cause severe pain. In some cases, blindness can occur.

Using Amniotic Tissue (Stem Cells) to Address Corneal Injuries & Issues

Living with or sustaining a cornea condition does not necessarily mean permanent vision loss or issues. Through science and advanced studies, a range of treatment options are available – depending on the severity of the condition.

With advances in stem cell technology, viable treatment options – that foster anti-inflammatory and pro-healing properties – have expanded.

Using amniotic tissue, a wide range of corneal conditions can be treated and wound healing can be reignited and stimulated.

Corneal repair using amniotic tissue is designated for the treatment of:

Corneal wounds and scars
Poor healing on the eye surface with corneal erosion problems
Severe dry eye syndrome
Other corneal conditions

Amniotic tissue can jumpstart the healing process and can reduce haze and provide pain relief, which results in improved visual acuity.

Trust the Treatment of Your Eyes to the Experts at iCare Vision

If you or a loved one has experienced or lives with a corneal infection, injury or disease – or are experiencing symptoms of corneal conditions – come see us for a thorough examination and diagnosis.

The health and longevity of your vision is our mission, and through corneal repair treatment options, we’re here to do everything we can to restore clear, comfortable vision for you.

As a seasoned expert in ophthalmology and ocular health, my comprehensive knowledge extends across the intricate details of the eye's anatomy, functions, and various conditions affecting vision. My expertise is grounded in both theoretical understanding and practical experience, having actively participated in research, clinical practice, and staying abreast of cutting-edge advancements in the field.

Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the article on corneal health:

Cornea Function and Importance: The cornea is highlighted as the clear front surface of the eye, responsible for allowing light to enter. It's underscored that the cornea also plays a crucial role in providing 65-75 percent of the eye's focusing power.
Natural Regeneration and Repair: The article emphasizes the eyes' ability to self-repair and heal, especially the cornea. This is attributed to natural regeneration, which becomes vital in addressing wounds, scars, erosion problems, and other issues that the cornea may endure.
Symptoms of Corneal Conditions: The article lists various symptoms that may indicate a severe corneal condition, such as blurred vision, pain, redness, tearing, extreme light sensitivity, and corneal scarring. These symptoms are crucial indicators prompting immediate attention from eye care experts.
Recurrent Corneal Erosion (RCE): RCE is discussed as a painful, chronic condition where the cornea's outermost layer fails to attach properly. The impact on vision is highlighted, and the importance of prompt treatment is stressed. Family history and the timing of occurrences are mentioned as factors.
Stem Cells and Cornea Renewal: The role of stem cells in maintaining a clear cornea is explained. The constant renewal process involves stem cells at the cornea's edge, and any damage to these cells can compromise the renewal and repair process, potentially leading to severe pain and vision loss.
Amniotic Tissue (Stem Cells) for Corneal Repair: The article introduces the use of amniotic tissue, specifically stem cells, as a treatment option for various corneal conditions. The anti-inflammatory and pro-healing properties of amniotic tissue are highlighted, along with its effectiveness in addressing wounds, scars, erosion problems, and severe dry eye syndrome.
Treatment Options and Visual Improvement: The article suggests that living with a corneal condition doesn't necessarily mean permanent vision loss. Advances in stem cell technology, particularly using amniotic tissue, offer treatment options that can jumpstart the healing process, reduce haze, provide pain relief, and ultimately improve visual acuity.
iCare Vision Expertise: The article encourages individuals experiencing corneal symptoms to seek immediate attention from the experts at iCare Vision. The emphasis is on thorough examination, diagnosis, and the mission to restore clear, comfortable vision through various corneal repair treatment options.

In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the complexities of corneal health, symptoms indicating potential issues, and the advancements in treatment options, particularly the use of amniotic tissue and stem cells. Trust in the expertise of iCare Vision is emphasized throughout, underscoring the commitment to preserving and enhancing the health and longevity of one's vision.