Amniotic membrane (AMT, amnion) is obtained from the most inner layer of the human placenta. It has many applications for assisting in healing damaged tissues.
In eye surgery it can assist in healing after surgical procedures, infections, inflammatory disorders, burns or chemical injuries, and other ocular surface conditions (dry eye, neurotrophic keratitis, limbal stem cell deficiency, etc.).
Amniotic membrane reduces inflammation of the ocular surface. This reduction inflammation leads to quicker healing and less risk of scarring that could impact vision.
Amniotic membrane is obtained from potential donors undergoing caesarian section who have been screened for HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis and prepared in FDA approved facilities. There are no reports of communicable disease from amniotic transplantation.
What to Expect During an Amniotic Membrane Transplant
Amniotic membrane transplants may be performed in the office or in a surgery center setting either alone or in combination with another procedure.
The transplant is applied to the surface of the eye where it is needed (often the cornea or conjunctiva). Drops are given to numb the ocular surface. The transplant is then applied. A bandage contact lens may also be applied for comfort to help stabilize the transplanted tissue.
It is normal to experience very blurry vision following the application of the membrane. You may feel like you are looking through wax paper until the ocular surface heals and the graft breaks down.
