Sankara Eye Hospital effectively reinstates corneal sensation in 55-year-old man who lost nerve supply to cornea

Sankara Eye Hospital Coimbatore successfully treated a 55-year-old male suffering from the loss of corneal sensation, marking a significant milestone in ophthalmic care in the region.

Venkatesh (name changed), incapacitated by recurrent corneal ulcer and epithelial breakdown following tooth extraction, faced daily challenges due to constant tearing, severe pain, and sensitivity to daylight. His condition, scientifically known as neurotrophic corneal ulcer, results from the absence of nerve supply to the cornea, vital for maintaining its health and functionality.

With every blink of the eye there is a distribution of the thin tear film of the eye, akin to the wiper of the car windshield. Small dust and foreign specs are also wiped clean by the blinks. The slight drying up of the tear film that happens between blinks stimulates the fine nerve endings in the cornea, which perceive the drying and initiate a blink to happen whereby the dry areas are wiped moist. This simple action of moisturizing the ocular surface by blinking is regulated by the rich nerve endings in the cornea.

Explaining the significance of corneal sensation, Dr. Shruthi Tara, Chief Medical Officer at Sankara Eye Hospital Coimbatore, stated, “The cornea, with its rich nerve supply, plays a crucial role in maintaining ocular surface health. Reduced sensation can lead to corneal ulcers, scarring, and vision loss if left untreated.”

Traditional treatments such as lubrication, bandage contact lenses, and suturing of eyelids offer support but do not address the underlying issue. However, a breakthrough surgical technique called corneal neurotization directly tackles the root cause.

During the four-hour procedure, a segment of a free sensory nerve (Sural nerve) from the patient’s calf is harvested and grafted to the intact nerve of the forehead. The grafted nerve is then inserted around the cornea, facilitating the regeneration of sensory connections and restoring corneal sensation.

“Today, Venkatesh is experiencing significant improvement, with his corneal ulcer healing. Complete restoration takes close to 6 months. This groundbreaking procedure not only offers hope for patients like him but also paves the way for future corneal restorative treatments,” added Dr. Shruthi.

The successful execution of corneal neurotization at Sankara Eye Hospital Coimbatore represents a remarkable advancement in ophthalmic care in the region. The hospital remains committed to delivering innovative solutions and transforming lives through excellence in eye care.