Despite attempts since the early 1800s, success in corneal transplantation remained elusive until the
beginning of the 20th century. Indeed, corneal transplantation is the oldest form of tissue transplantation with the first successful full-thickness corneal transplant performed by Eduard Zirm in 19051. Zirm’s perspicacity paved the way for the success of contemporary corneal transplantation, which is primarily the result of a culmination of pivotal achievements, including the introduction of corticosteroids in the 1950s, the refinement of suture materials in the 1960s and the development and wider employment of surgical microscopes in the early 1970s1.
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free Member account at NZ Optics to read this article and more.
- Read all Member articles
- Full digital magazine archive
- Early access to new articles
