# Effects of COVID‐19 on Corneal Transplants Across the Five Regions of Brazil and Trends in Post‐Pandemic Recovery—A Cross‐Sectional Study

## TL;DR

The study shows how the pandemic disrupted corneal transplants in Brazil and highlights uneven recovery across regions.

## Contribution

This is the first study to analyze long-term corneal transplant trends in Brazil across five regions during and after the pandemic.

## Key findings

- Corneal transplants dropped 54% in 2020 during the pandemic lockdown.
- Recovery was strongest in the South, Southeast, and Northeast after vaccination.
- Regional disparities persisted despite a 18% national increase in transplants by 2022.

## Abstract

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly disrupted global eye health services, including corneal transplants. This study evaluates the pandemic's long‐term impact on corneal transplantation across Brazil's five regions, highlighting national and regional recovery trends.

Monthly corneal transplantation data were obtained from the Brazilian Health Information System (DATASUS) and analyzed across four periods: pre‐pandemic (January 2018 to February 2020), lockdown (March 2020 to December 2020), vaccination (January 2021 to March 2022), and post‐pandemic (April 2022 to June 2024) across the five Brazilian regions.

Transplants dropped by 54% in 2020, with the South, Northeast, and Southeast most affected. In 2021, as vaccination efforts advanced, transplants recovered by 86%, particularly in the South, Northeast, and Southeast. The upward trend continued in 2022, with an 18% increase nationwide, especially in the North and South. However, in 2023, there was a slight overall decrease of 5%, with declines in the North, Southeast, and Midwest, while the South and Northeast saw minor increases.

Corneal transplantation in Brazil has shown signs of recovery, but a backlog remains, especially in underserved regions. This study underscores the need for continued monitoring and policy adjustments to address post‐pandemic demand and promote equitable access to eye care.

Corneal transplants in Brazil fell 54% during the 2020 pandemic lockdown.Recovery was strongest in South, Southeast, and Northeast after vaccination.Regional disparities persisted despite the overall transplant rebound by 2022.Findings call for targeted policies to ensure equitable post‐COVID‐19 eye care.

Corneal transplants in Brazil fell 54% during the 2020 pandemic lockdown.

Recovery was strongest in South, Southeast, and Northeast after vaccination.

Regional disparities persisted despite the overall transplant rebound by 2022.

Findings call for targeted policies to ensure equitable post‐COVID‐19 eye care.