Eye donation: The gift of sight
Part II
By Dr Neeraj Jain, MBBS, MD (ophthalmology), DNB, MNAMS
In last week’s article, we covered the concept of eye donation, how eyes can be donated, who can donate and what should be done in order to donate. This week, we will discuss eye banks, corneal transplants and other related issues.
Again I would like to emphasize that eye donation is a humble voluntary act. We all try our best to do good for the whole of human kind throughout our lives. We can add that extra mile by donating our eyes after death.
What is an eye bank?
An eye bank is a well equipped organization, which functions on properly laid-down guidelines for procurement, processing and utilization of the corneal tissue and related ancillaries. The eye bank receives donations from generous people who give the gift of sight by donating their eyes after they die. These donations are examined to ensure that the cornea is healthy, and suitable for corneal transplant.