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CLET / SLET · regional rarity · sub-specialty

Stem cell transplant — vision after the limbus is destroyed.

Limbal stem cells (at the edge of the cornea) constantly regenerate the corneal surface. When destroyed by chemical burns, severe scarring, or aniridia syndrome, the cornea opacifies and a transplant won't last without first restoring the stem cell population. CLET (cultivated) and SLET (simple limbal epithelial transplantation) bring the surface back to life.

Limbal Stem Cell Transplantation with Dr. Ahmed Shaarawy — Shaarawy Cornea Clinic

Why choose us

International standard. Regional access.

One of few regional centers performing CLET

Cultivated Limbal Epithelial Transplantation requires a specialized lab. Few centers in the Arab region perform it; we run the protocol in collaboration with a tissue lab in Cairo.

SLET in a single OR session

The SLET technique (Sangwan, India 2012) gives a CLET-like result without the lab — small biopsy from your healthy eye, distributed onto a bandage contact lens, glued to the affected eye.

Right candidate selection

Stem cell transplant only works after detailed evaluation. We screen with impression cytology, anterior segment OCT, and detailed history before committing.

Two-stage rehabilitation when needed

Severe cases need stem cell transplant first, then corneal transplant 6–12 months later once the surface is healed. We plan the full sequence upfront.

Procedures & pricing

Transparent USD pricing.

Final cost is set after clinical examination. Local-currency equivalents available on request. Insurance reports issued for international patients.

ProcedureBest forFrom (USD)
SLET (Simple Limbal Epithelial Transplantation)Single-step, autologous, no lab$2,000 $3,500
CLET (Cultivated Limbal Epithelial Transplantation)Lab-cultured, larger area coverage$2,500 $4,000
Combined CLET + later corneal transplantTwo-stage rehab for severe cases$5,500 $8,500
تجربة مريض حقيقية

Watch a real patient's experience with Dr. Ahmed Shaarawy

A real patient shares the full journey — from diagnosis to corneal renewal after ocular stem-cell transplantation.

Common questions

Frequently asked.

Who is a candidate?
Patients with limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) — most commonly from chemical or thermal burns (especially alkali burns), severe contact lens-related damage, Stevens-Johnson syndrome sequelae, aniridia syndrome, and certain genetic conditions.
How is SLET different from CLET?
Both transplant limbal stem cells from your healthy eye to the diseased one. SLET is single-stage (biopsy + transplant in one OR session, no lab). CLET grows the cells in a lab over 2–3 weeks first, then transplants the cultivated sheet. CLET covers a larger area; SLET is simpler and equally effective for moderate cases.
What if both eyes are affected?
Allogeneic (donor) stem cells from a relative or eye bank are an option, but require lifelong immunosuppression. We screen carefully and discuss the trade-offs in detail. Some bilateral cases are best managed with keratoprosthesis (artificial cornea) instead.
What's the success rate?
For unilateral LSCD with autologous SLET / CLET: 70–85% achieve a stable ocular surface at 2 years. Long-term success depends on careful patient selection and post-op management. Visual outcome depends on whether a subsequent corneal transplant is also needed.

Chemical burn or LSCD case? Send the details.

Stem cell candidacy requires careful evaluation — send your full ocular history, recent OCT and impression cytology if available, and photos of the eye. We'll respond within 24 hours with whether SLET / CLET / keratoprosthesis is the right path and the all-in cost.

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