Melon is treated for chronic corneal sequestra

October 8, 2021

Melon was referred to our ophthalmology department at SFVS with chronic corneal sequestra in both eyes. The condition is serious and vision-threatening, and Melon was at risk of losing both his eyes.

Melon underwent complex corneal microsurgery at SFVS (keratectomy and corneoconjunctival transposition), where the diseased cornea was cut out and then the healthy surrounding cornea was used as a graft to provide support and protection to the fragile eye. This procedure was performed in both eyes under the same general anaesthetic. The suture material used (9-0 Vicryl) to suture the cornea is finer than human hair and an operating microscope and specialized microinstruments are used to perform this surgery.

One of the benefits of this type of corneal grafting is that the grafted tissue is autologous (self tissue) and thus patients do not suffer from graft rejection. Further, clear cornea is placed over the diseased portion (which is typically right in the visual axis over the pupil), and thus maximizes the future corneal transparency and visual outcome.

Images taken 2 weeks post-operatively

Melon Guo Ophthalmology case study

Melon’s corneas healed exceptionally well and at his final re-examination (6 weeks post-operatively) his eyes were very comfortable, normally visual and with excellent corneal clarity.

Images taken at final examination 6 weeks post-operatively

Melon Guo Ophthalmology case study

For more information about the Ophthalmology service at Southfields, click here.