Find The Answers You Need.
This page, combined with the "NEWS" section, is what we call our “LIBRARY OF ASSISTANCE.” It contains answers to members questions, regarding all aspects of the OOKP journey.
For simplicity, we’ve highlighted each question, then provided an answer. Therefore, simply scroll through the questions for one which meets your needs.
We suggest visiting this page regularly, as the contents continually adapt to meet the needs of our members.
Once you begin using this page, you’ll continue returning, as it becomes a quick reference service, answering questions regarding your OOKP journey.
ANSWER: OOKP (Osteo-Odonto-Keratoprosthesis) is a complex eye surgery used to restore vision in patients with severe corneal damage. It involves implanting a prosthetic lens into a tooth segment, which is placed in the eye to serve as an artificial cornea. Candidates typically have severe blindness, unable to be treated with conventional corneal transplants. Common conditions include Stevens-Johnson syndrome, severe burns, or autoimmune diseases that damage the cornea.
ANSWER: OOKP is a two-stage procedure:
Stage 1: A small section of a patient’s (or donor's) tooth is removed, shaped, and embedded with an optical cylinder. It's implanted under the cheek, to develop blood supply. If your own tooth is used, a small section is removed, but should not affect overall dental function. A prosthetic or donor tooth may be used in some cases.
Stage 2: Several months later, the implant is transferred into the eye, replacing the damaged cornea, allowing light to pass through the optical cylinder., to form images on the retina.
ANSWER: Recovery varies, but initial healing from each stage can take several weeks. Full adaptation to the new vision may take some months, and regular follow-ups are needed to monitor progress.
ANSWER: While OOKP can significantly restore vision, results depend on the condition of the retina and optic nerve. Many patients regain functional sight, often sufficient for reading large print, recognizing faces, and navigating independently.
ANSWER: Yes, OOKP requires continuous monitoring by an eye specialist. Regular check-ups ensure the implant remains functional and detects any early signs of complications.
ANSWER: OOKP is performed on one eye at a time, and generally, only one eye is treated due to the complexity of the surgery. If the first procedure is successful, the possibility of treating the second eye can be evaluated.
ANSWER: It's normal to feel anxious. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and visualization can help. Speaking with your doctor, joining support groups (like ours) and talking to family and peers about your feelings can reduce fears and ease worries.
ANSWER: Focus on small milestones in your recovery rather than expecting instant results. Remember, healing takes time and each step forward is progress. Talking to peers who have undergone the procedures can also give reassurance.
ANSWER: Major surgery like OOKP can impact self-perception. If your vision was previously impaired, regaining sight may bring unexpected emotional adjustments. Some people struggle with self-image, but support from professionals, loved ones or peers can help with the transition.
ANSWER: Stay connected with family and friends, through visits, calls or messages. Joining online forums or support groups (like ours) for people with visual impairments or those familiar with OOKP surgery, can provide comfort and motivation.
ANSWER: Acknowledge any fears or concerns and talk to your medical team about them. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation. Speak to others who have had the surgery and join a support group such as ours,, to learn practical and mental coping skills. Why reinvent the wheel when others have a solution
ANSWER: Set up a comfortable recovery space with easy access to essentials like medications, eye drops, water, and entertainment (like audio books). Make sure pathways are clear, to avoid tripping hazards. Speak to peers, who can give specific tips to address particular problems
ANSWER: Yes, you’ll likely need someone to help with transportation, household tasks, and medical needs, especially in the first few days. Arrange for family members or friends to assist you during recovery, but also use the OOKP support group, who can connect you with various departments who can help
ANSWER: Pack essentials like comfortable clothing, ID and medical documents, any prescribed medications, a phone with audio books or music, and basic toiletries. You may also want to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright light, before and after surgery. ~Speak to peers to see what helped them.
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