Eye bank

Eye Bank is a medical facility that stores and distributes corneal tissues for corneal transplants and research. The primary function of an eye bank is to ensure the availability of high-quality eye tissues for transplantation, education, and research.

History

The concept of eye banking dates back to 1944 when the first eye bank was established in New York City. Today, there are more than 80 eye banks in the United States, and many more worldwide, that are members of the Eye Bank Association of America (EBAA).

Functions

Eye banks are responsible for the recovery, evaluation, and distribution of eye tissues donated by individuals upon their death. The tissues are used for corneal transplantation, research, and education. Eye banks also promote public awareness about the need for eye donations and provide bereavement support to donor families.

Recovery

When a potential donor dies, the eye bank's recovery team is notified. The team then evaluates the donor's medical and social history to determine if the person is a suitable donor. If the person is deemed suitable, the team recovers the corneas and sometimes other parts of the eye.

Evaluation

After recovery, the eye tissues are evaluated in the eye bank's laboratory. The evaluation includes a physical inspection of the tissues and a review of the donor's medical history. The tissues are also tested for infectious diseases.

Distribution

Once the eye tissues have passed the evaluation, they are distributed to surgeons for transplantation. The tissues are also distributed to researchers and educators.

Corneal Transplantation

Corneal transplantation is a surgical procedure where a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with a donated cornea tissue. It is one of the most common types of transplantation and has a high success rate. The procedure is performed by an ophthalmologist.

See Also

• Cornea
• Corneal transplantation
• Eye Bank Association of America
• Ophthalmologist