Eye donor awareness: Frequently asked questions
Who can be an eye donor?
Anyone can. The great thing about eye tissue is that everyone is a universal donor. Your blood type does not have to match. It doesn’t matter how old you are, what color your eyes are, or if you are farsighted or nearsighted. Most people are suitable donors, aside from those with infections or highly communicable diseases such as HIV or viral hepatitis. Don’t let your health status stop you from registering as a donor; a background check will be done at the time of death to determine your eligibility to donate.
Who handles eye donations?
Iowa Lions Eye Bank recovers, evaluates, processes, and distributes ocular tissue to surgeons, researchers, and educators not only in Iowa, but domestically and internationally as well. Iowa Lions Eye Bank works with Iowa Donor Network to contact and screen potential donors before dispatching recovery technicians. If someone passes away at a UI Health Care medical center or any other hospital in Iowa, and is eligible for donation, the hospital will contact Iowa Donor Network to begin the donation process. If someone passes away outside of a hospital, a family member must call 1-800-831-4131 as soon as possible after death occurs for the donation process to begin.
Will my entire eye be recovered?
Often only the cornea will be recovered. Whole eyes are recovered for research and education purposes only. After recovery, it is still possible to have an open-casket funeral, as steps are taken to maintain the appearance of the donor.
What is a cornea?
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped outer part of the eye. It is about the size of a dime, not connected to any blood vessels, and is responsible for about 70% of your vision. It protects the rest of the eye and helps focus light onto the retina. The cornea has five layers, only some of which may be needed for transplant. It also is the only part of the eye that can be transplanted.
How do you sign up as a donor?
When you apply for your Iowa driver's license at your local Iowa Department of Transportation office, you will be asked if you would like to register as am organ donor. If you check "yes" on your Iowa driver's license application form, you've given legal consent to donate your eyes, organs, and tissues after your death. You can also register as a donor online. Make sure to let your loved ones know of your wishes.
How common is corneal transplantation?
Corneal transplantation is a common procedure and is more than 90% effective. The first transplant took place in 1905, and the first eye bank was established in 1944. Iowa Lions Eye Bank was established in 1955 and has been affiliated with the University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences since it was established.
Why would someone need a cornea transplant?
There are a variety of reasons for cornea transplants, including disorders like Fuchs dystrophy and keratoconus, infections like acanthamoeba keratitis, or injuries. If you think you might need a cornea transplant, consult with a qualified ophthalmologist.