Ms. Hanh, residing in Da Nang, began experiencing blurry vision, like a fog before her eyes, in 2025. She visited a clinic in Da Nang, where she was diagnosed with cataracts and underwent Phaco surgery to replace the natural lens with an artificial one. Following the operation, her vision did not improve. Her eyes remained inflamed and red, intraocular pressure increased, and glaucoma subsequently developed. As the damage progressed, she was referred to Ha Noi for a corneal transplant.

Upon arriving in Ha Noi, her vision sharply deteriorated. She could barely recognize those in front of her and needed assistance from relatives to move around. Her husband, Mr. Dong Huu Tri, 68, recounted, "I sat right in front of her, and she only saw me as a black blob."

Doctor Dinh Thi Hoang Anh examines the patient's eyes. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

At the Hong Ngoc Eye Center, Doctor Dinh Thi Hoang Anh, Head of Ophthalmology, identified extensive and complex damage in both eyes. This included grade 4 meibomian gland dysfunction, blepharitis with multiple neovascularizations, conjunctival edema, hyperemia, and a dry ocular surface. The corneal epithelium was entirely detached, and both corneas were opaque.

The sudden worsening of vision, combined with severe corneal damage, necessitated emergency surgery for the patient. However, due to the varying extent of damage and different treatment goals for each eye, the doctors decided against a uniform approach.

Ms. Hanh and her husband at Hong Ngoc General Hospital for an examination. Photo: Hospital provided

Doctor Hoang Anh consulted with Professor, Doctor Kalinnikov Yury, an ophthalmology expert from the Russian Federation. After individually assessing each eye, the team prioritized a corneal transplant for the left eye to preserve its structure and maintain the possibility of vision improvement. The right eye received a biological membrane to protect its surface.

Doctors will continue to monitor the right eye while the left eye recovers. Once the left eye's condition stabilizes, the patient will be re-evaluated to determine the next course of action for the right eye.

The team performs an emergency corneal transplant on the patient's left eye. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

One month after the transplant, the left eye's discomfort reduced, and vision improved. From being almost unable to recognize people, Ms. Hanh could now perceive light, see her hands, human figures, and objects. Her mobility also improved, and she was no longer entirely dependent on her relatives.

"Seeing light, seeing my hands, human figures, and objects is enough to make me happy," she said. For the right eye, doctors are maintaining the biological membrane and continuing to monitor it to consider treatment options after the left eye stabilizes.

According to Doctor Hoang Anh, cases of complex corneal damage require individual assessment for each eye, based on the extent of the injury and the treatment objectives. Timely intervention helps protect the ocular structure and preserves the opportunity for patients to regain vision.

Van Ha

Hong Ngoc General Hospital - Phuc Truong Minh

8 Chau Van Liem Street, Tu Liem Ward, Ha Noi

Operating License Number: 308/BYT - GPHD

Daily operating hours: 24/24 h

Scope of professional activities: Performing specialized techniques approved by the Minister of Health, as stipulated in the operating license.