UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

After my last appointment when they told me my graft eye was increasing in astigmatism I received my next appointment and an additional appointment for Orthoptics on a different floor. What does this mean? I still have all but 8 stitches still in. they took out 4 when my sight was ok, it Is now very poor. Does this mean the graft hasnt worked?? Its friday and noone is answering at the hospital. im completely deflated all this pain for nothing??? please someone help me if anybody knows why they have given me this extra appointment or what orthoptics are please please let me know im tearing my hair out.

[mobile number removed by John on request]

Hi Denner

Im so sorry to read what trouble your having and im not able to help as i havnt had my graft done yet but i am sure that if anyone on this site knows they will reply.

I know its hard not knowing but are you sure that putting your mobile number on is safe.

Im only thinking of you

Take care

luv

Emma xxx

Hi Denner,

I know it's difficult but I'd try not to worry yourself. If it was something major they'd more than likely have told you and got you on a quick emergency appointment.

The likelihood is that you're probably now at a stage where they are able to try new things to improve your vision, whereas before your appointments were more about getting your vision to settle.

All the best, I'll be thinking of you.
Chris.

hi guys, now ive calmed down abit i do wish i hadnt put my mob no on the post but just so down... maybe one of the guys who run the site can erase it.

Hi Denner

Click on edit in the corner of that post and delete the number and submit the post again

Dont worry

luv

Emma xxx

Denner,

If your graft is still transparent, then it has not failed.

It sounds to me that you are not achieving the vision that you and your consultant would hope for, so they are investigating other options.

I wouldn't panic, but I know it's easy for me to say. For what it's worth, I had 8 or 9 (lost count, sorry) rejection episodes following my PK graft, and now, for much of the day, I'm just about acheiving driving-level vision, with glasses. So any little setback doesn't have to be a huge problem.


Hope you feel happier soon.

Thanks John,
I feel like someone who had too much to drink at the office party going back to work on the following Monday. I just want my life back again. I promise to remain calm (well quite calm) from now on.

Don't worry about it Denner,

We all panic at one time or another and here is a great place to express concern.

Keep us informed on how you are getting on.

Denner

The worst thing we can do is panic about panicing.

All the best

Andrew

Hi Denner,
What most probably happened is that removing the 4 stitches has resulted in an increase in your astigmatism which does happen sometimes.In simple terms it means your cornea is a bit more distorted than it used to be, but dont despair, it's quite possible things will even out as they remove more stitches.If you still have high astigmatism after all stitches are out you may need a contact lens, and there's also a relatively minor procedure that could be carried out if necessary (astigmatic keratectomy).

Re Orthoptics, my guess is this appointment was sent to you in error.Orthoptists deal with binocular vision problems eg squints, lazy eyes, double vision, so ,unless you are getting double vision or similar problems you wouldnt need to see an orthoptist.Phone the hospital next week to check but dont worry about it.