The eyeball is a highly intricate organ. If it were pierced by iron filings, causing damage to both the ocular surface and internal structures, could vision still be preserved? Even doctors would find it difficult to give a definitive answer before treatment.According to Mr. Lian's recollection: About a year ago, while working on a construction site, he was using a shovel to pry up wooden planks when a piece of iron filings suddenly flew into his right eye, piercing the eyeball. He immediately felt pain, tearing, and experienced minor bleeding. Accompanied by family members, he rushed to the hospital for treatment, where doctors performed surgery to remove the iron filings.However, due to the complexity of the injury, his eye did not recover after surgery; instead, his vision progressively worsened.
Brother Lian underwent approximately five surgeries of varying complexity at the hospital, including vitrectomy on his right eye, silicone oil removal, and intraocular lens implantation. Later, his right cornea gradually turned white, and his vision deteriorated to the point where he could only make out people's silhouettes at close range.The relentless pursuit of treatment forced Brother Lian to travel back and forth, leaving him unable to work. Doctors informed him that his cornea had developed pathological changes, requiring specialized care at an ophthalmic hospital. Following medical advice, he sought treatment at Nanning Aier Eye Hospital. After comprehensive examinations and reviewing Brother Lian's medical history, Dr. Huang Minghai, Director of the Cornea and Ocular Surface Department, diagnosed him with right eye corneal endothelial dysfunction."Due to trauma and surgical complications, his right eye developed corneal endothelial dysfunction. I devised a surgical plan centered on corneal endothelial transplantation. Based on his condition, he could regain some vision post-surgery..." explained Dr. Huang Minghai.
As Guangxi's sole eye bank—Nanning Aier Eye Bank—is located within Nanning Aier Eye Hospital, Mr. Lian quickly received a suitable corneal graft. Following the treatment plan, Dr. Huang Minghai led the surgical team in meticulously performing the corneal endothelial transplant. The surgery was successful. After a few days of hospitalization, Mr. Lian experienced improved vision."After discharge, as your eye continues to heal, your vision may improve further. Be sure to return for follow-up examinations as instructed!" Dr. Huang reminded Mr. Lian.
Once gripped by panic over the potential loss of sight in his right eye, Mr. Lian now cherishes the light preserved in that eye, expressing profound gratitude to all the medical staff!
What is a corneal endothelial transplant?
Dr. Huang Minghai explained that corneal endothelial transplantation represents a major innovation in corneal transplant technology over the past decade. As a cutting-edge ophthalmic technique, it offers unique advantages over other procedures in treating corneal endothelial decompensation diseases.This procedure involves transplanting only the extremely thin layer of corneal tissue containing the healthy endothelial layer to replace the diseased endothelium. It features smaller incisions, higher safety, faster visual recovery, and lower postoperative corneal rejection rates. However, it also demands higher standards for corneal donor materials and the surgeon's technical proficiency.
It is reported that Dr. Huang Minghai, in addition to his high proficiency in conventional procedures such as penetrating keratoplasty, lamellar keratoplasty, and anterior segment reconstruction, has also kept pace with international trends. Years ago, he pioneered deep lamellar keratoplasty and endothelial keratoplasty in Guangxi, representing modern concepts in corneal transplantation. With his advanced medical skills and extensive clinical experience, he has restored sight to numerous patients suffering from corneal blindness.