{
  "abstract": "Purpose This review provides an overview of the history, cultural development and impact of eye banking in the United States, with a focus on the collaborative efforts of the Eye Bank Association of America (EBAA), the role of eye bank technicians, and the culture of donation fostered by public engagement with donor registries. It aims to highlight how partnerships, training programs, and donor awareness campaigns contribute to the success of corneal transplant initiatives.Methods Analyzing historical records, regulatory standards, and current practices, we explored the evolution of eye banking, transplant procedures, and the culture of corneal donation in the United States. Key topics of focus included the donor registry, referral systems, donor consent processes, and tissue recovery and preservation methods. We analyzed collaborative relationships between eye banks, hospitals, and organizations, as well as educational initiatives aimed at public awareness and technician training.Results Since the first corneal transplant in the early 20th century and the establishment of the EBAA in 1961, eye banks have grown significantly, with over 50 EBAA-accredited banks in the United States. Annually, US eye banks facilitate more than 69,000 corneal donations, contributing to over 2 million transplants since EBAA’s founding. Educational programs and awareness campaigns, supported by community organizations, enhance the culture of donation, while advancements in preservation and recovery techniques have enhanced the quality of transplants.Conclusion Eye banks play a critical role in vision restoration, supported by rigorous standards, training initiatives and collaborative networks. Future directions include enhancing outreach, refining tissue preservation methods, and increasing international partnerships to address the growing demand for sight-restoring procedures worldwide.",
  "authors": [
    {
      "affiliations": [
        "Miracles in Sight, Winston-Salem, USA"
      ],
      "name": "Kristen McCoy"
    }
  ],
  "title": "1.8. Eye banking in America: an overview of the evolution, process and future of eye banking",
  "uid": "602186fb-b37f-524c-a06e-815f176d907e"
}