For transplantation, cornea can be removed from dead body up to:
**Core Concept**
The cornea can be successfully transplanted from a donor who has been declared dead, but there are limitations to the post-mortem period. This is due to the risk of contamination and the degradation of the corneal tissue.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The cornea can be harvested up to 12 hours post-mortem, as long as the donor's eyes are properly stored in a sterile solution to prevent bacterial growth. The cornea is avascular, meaning it lacks blood vessels, which reduces its susceptibility to bacterial contamination. However, beyond 12 hours, the risk of contamination and tissue degradation increases significantly, making it unsuitable for transplantation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** 6 hours post-mortem is too short a timeframe for corneal harvesting, as the cornea can still be viable for several hours after death.
**Option B:** There is no scientific basis for this timeframe, and it is not a commonly accepted limit for corneal harvesting.
**Option C:** 24 hours post-mortem is too long a period for corneal harvesting, as the risk of contamination and tissue degradation is significantly increased.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When considering corneal transplantation, it's essential to remember that the cornea can be harvested from a donor up to 12 hours post-mortem, but only if proper storage and handling procedures are followed.
**Correct Answer:** C. 12 hours