The cornea is the clear front of the eye that covers the colored iris and the round pupil. Light is focused while passing through the cornea so we can see. To stay clear the cornea must be healthy.
If the cornea is damaged it may become swollen or scarred. In either case, it's smoothness and clarity may be lost. The scars, swelling or an irregular shape cause the cornea to scatter or distort light, resulting in glare or blurred vision.
Once the decision has been made for you to have a corneal transplant, your name is put on the list at the Eye Bank Of Wisconsin. Usually the wait is short. Before a cornea is released for transplant, the eye bank tests the human donor for the viruses that cause hepatitis and AIDS. The cornea is carefully checked for clarity.