Changing indications for keratoplasty

Abstract

We conducted a clinical and pathologic review of 1,057 recipient corneal buttons on file at the Wilmer Institute, to assess the incidence of corneal conditions treated with keratoplasty, and how these have changed (1941-1973). Regrafting was the most frequent indication for keratoplasty in the last ten years in this series. Some corneal diseases, such as inflammatory conditions, decreased in relative importance as an indication for keratoplasty, while others such as aphakic bullous keratopathy (including vitreous touch) and Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy increased.