Evolution of keratoplasty: from darkness to light.

The story of the evolution of corneal grafting reads like a modem day epic: Complete with a cast of larger than life heroes, brilliant and heroic feats, inspired by the mundane. The history is also peppered with dismal, heart rending failures, foolhardy ventures, and the ultimate triumph of the indomitable human spirit over all odds. This review aims to highlight the significant milestones in the rich history of corneal transplantation, and to pay tribute to the many inspired and dedicated pioneers in this field for their perseverance and superior wisdom. It is also a salute and memorial to the patients who reposed their trust in the corneal surgeons, subjecting themselves to the trauma of surgery, often with less than optimal results. It was their collective, relentless toil and dynamic vision which has resulted in the state of the art surgical techniques which are the basis of modern day keratoplasty.