Eye tissue donation
Eye donation can be considered for patients aged 10 to 85. It can take place in hospitals, hospices, funeral homes and in communities across New Zealand. The process of eye tissue donation is respectful, done in a timely manner and will not alter a person’s appearance.
How does eye tissue donation work?
The whole eye is donated. Following donation, the shape of the eyelid is maintained using a small plastic shield, so the eyes remain closed and the appearance is not altered.
Corneas are transplanted within three to four weeks of donation to restore sight, for two recipients. Sclerae are transplanted to restore eye function following injury or disease, for between two and eight recipients, and can be stored for up to a year.
Common reasons for a corneal transplant include keratoconus, degenerative conditions such as Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy, corneal perforation, repeated infections not responding to antibiotics, and scarring from injury or infection.
The eye tissue donation process
The process is the same for all tissue donations.
What is specific to eye tissue:
- Donation takes about 30 minutes.
- It is carried out by an ophthalmologist, or by a corneal coordinator from the New Zealand National Eye Bank.
- It usually takes place in the mortuary, or at a funeral home or hospice. It can also take place at the end of a donor operation in theatre.
Learn more about tissue donation
The six-step process, screening, bloods and the physical assessment.
If you don't have the answer, call ODNZ, or ask the whānau spokesperson whether they would like a donor coordinator to phone them directly.
