Doctors told about the first 3D-printed cornea transplant in humans
For the first time, a successful 3D-printed corneal transplant was performed in Israel from pre-cultured human cells. The operation allowed the patient, who was legally blind, to regain her eyesight. This was reported on December 2 by New Atlas magazine.
According to the publication, specialists from the Rambam Institute of Ophthalmology in Haifa implanted a cornea created from living human cells without using donor tissue. The researchers explained that they managed to grow about 300 bioprinted implants from a single donor cornea. This provides a chance to significantly reduce the shortage of such fabrics in many countries.
The clinic added that the operation is being performed as part of the first stage of the study for patients with diseases of the corneal endothelium. The first results on the safety of the new technology are expected to be received next year.
Professor Michael Mimuni, Head of the Cornea Department at the Rambam Ophthalmology Hospital, noted that for the first time in history, a cornea created in a laboratory from living cells restored the patient's eyesight. According to him, the doctors witnessed "a game-changing moment."
The technology has been developed for several years in collaboration with clinicians and research groups. According to experts, its successful application opens up the possibility to significantly expand access to corneal transplantation in countries without developed tissue banks.
Earlier, on August 10, ophthalmologist and CEO of VISTA Ophthalmological Center Anton Kazantsev shared habits that can preserve eyesight. He called the "20-20-20 rule" the most underestimated, the essence of which is the need to look up from the screen every 20 minutes and look at an object at a distance of 20 m for 20 seconds. According to the expert, this practice reduces the risk of myopia progression.
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