Fuchs' Corneal Dystrophy

[Sha345]

I have been diagnosed with Fuch's and am scheduled for a superficial keratectomy on 10/15 on my left eye.  The specialist informed me that I could never have a corneal transplant because of the disease.  What is the prognosis if the surgery doesn't work and according to the specialist it may not? What then?  Now I am have visual problems in my right eye so it's really difficult to see clearly to read, watch TV or even drive.  Will I end up going blind.  I am 63 and this disease has never been discovered until now even though I have complained about blurred vision for years.  I have worn glasses since I was 11.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

This is elective surgery. You don't go into surgery with that many questions unanswered. Consider canceling surgery and getting a second opinon from a cornea surgeon from a different office.

JCH MD

[stokerrd3]

What is the end result if you do have a Superficial Keratectomy for correction of Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy?  I have Fuchs & am scheduled for the superficial Keratectomy procedure day after tomorrow, Thurs 11/1/12.  Thought that I was seeing the Corneal Surgeon to discuss a DSEK or DSEAK but was scheduled for the keratectomy without much explanation other than that it is less invasive than the DSEAK.  Please respond in time for me to postpone if more discussion is the best route at this time.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Something's not right. Superficial keratectomy is NOT a treatment for Fuchs' corneal dystrophy.  The procedure for Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy is a new procedure called DSEAK.  use the search feature and look up those terms. Clarify your problem with your corneal specialist.

JCH MD