JoVE has standardized pre-surgical steps for eye surgery through video publications, standardizing corneal transplant procedures to minimize waste and risk of tissue rejection. The articles describe simplified techniques for harvesting cornea and retina, as well as critical steps in keratoplasty and endothelial keratoplasty.
Rapid advancements in corneal transplantation have led to the decline of complete cornea transplantation (PK), with newer forms of lamellar transplantation surgery selectively replacing diseased layers offering better visual outcomes and lower risks of complications.
Researchers found that corneal thickening occurs in FECD patients before swelling is observed, necessitating regular monitoring and potential surgical intervention. The study's findings have the potential to improve patient care for Fuchs corneal dystrophy.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in cultivating stem cells on human corneas, a potential game-changer for patients awaiting corneal transplants. The successful cultivation of stem cells on human corneas could eventually eliminate the shortage of donated corneas, allowing for more people to receive life-changing transplants.
A Northwestern University study identified a gene that prevents blood vessels from forming in the cornea, which is essential for vision. The researchers hope to use this discovery as a basis for gene therapy to treat multiple eye disorders that cause blindness.
Collagen crosslinking treatment using riboflavin (vitamin B) has improved vision in nearly 70% of patients with keratoconus, according to a recent three-year clinical trial. The treatment addresses the underlying causes of the disease and provides a permanent solution.
Researchers aim to double the time window for corneal transplants from one week to two weeks after donor death to increase donated cornea supply. The five-year study will compare outcomes of 1,330 corneal transplants to determine if second-week transplants are as effective and safe.
The study reveals regional and temporal variations in organ donation across the UK, with Wales consistently outperforming its neighbors. England and Scotland have lower organ donation rates, while Northern Ireland surprises with high lung donation rates.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center are developing gene therapy in corneal stem cells to alleviate damage to corneas caused by diabetes. The therapy aims to correct abnormal protein production and restore normal corneal cell turnover, preventing vision loss.
Researchers found that glaucoma is more likely to progress with peak intraocular pressure of 18 mm Hg or higher, as well as cornea thinning and disc hemorrhage. These risk factors can help clinicians decide how aggressively to treat patients to slow glaucoma progression.
Researchers tracked corneal transplant success in young patients and found substantial improvement in vision for most children with keratoconus. The study revealed that infants had lower success rates due to related illnesses, while older children fared better.
A new surgical strategy using a single donor cornea can successfully treat two patients with different corneal diseases, such as Fuchs' dystrophy and keratoconus. The approach may nearly double the available corneal tissue supply and make timely treatment available to many more patients.
Scientists have found that free radicals contribute to the damage in patients with Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD), a hereditary disease impacting nearly four percent of the population over age 60. The discovery holds promise for early and preventative treatments, such as a diet rich in leafy green vegetables and multivitamins.
A study of 3,015 individuals found that corneal arcus is associated with higher intraocular pressure and thicker corneas. Participants with corneal arcus were more likely to have high eye pressure but not glaucoma.
Researchers have developed new presbyopia treatments, including corneal lens implants and inlays, which show promise in improving near vision without the need for glasses. These options offer advantages over traditional LASIK procedures, such as reversed effects and improved distance vision.
Researchers have developed biosynthetic corneas that can regenerate and repair damaged eye tissue, improving vision in humans. The results of an early-phase clinical trial show promising outcomes, including improved vision and reduced rejection reactions.
Researchers have identified a gene likely responsible for Fuchs corneal dystrophy, an inheritable genetic disorder causing corneal transplant operations. The TCF4 gene variation significantly increases the risk of developing the disease.
A 2-year clinical study demonstrated that biosynthetic corneas formulated with recombinant human type III collagen restored vision and promoted nerve regeneration in patients with corneal damage. The results provide proof-of-concept for a viable replacement for human donor tissue or animal-sourced collagens.
Researchers at Penn State have developed a method to create macroscale molds or dies that retain nanoscale features, mimicking biological tissues. The team used blowfly eyes as a template to produce high-quality polymer replicas with precise dimensions.
A study published in July Ophthalmology journal confirms that failure and rejection of corneal transplants are more likely in patients with abnormal vessel growth before surgery. Researchers found that treating patients before transplant may improve success rates using growth-inhibiting drugs or gene transcription therapies.
A study of 388 patients found that recipient diagnosis, not donor age or tissue preservation methods, is associated with corneal transplant failure. Transplant recipients with keratoconus had a lower risk of graft failure than those with endothelial dysfunction.
A study published in Archives of Ophthalmology found that high-altitude climbers experience corneal swelling, but their vision remains unaffected at elevations of up to 20,670 feet. The authors suggest that oxygen levels may play a crucial role in maintaining corneal health.
A new predictor of cornea transplant success has been identified by the Cornea Donor Study Investigator Group. The study found that a patient's endothelial cell count six months post-transplant is a better indicator of subsequent failure of the graft rather than the donor's cell count.
Research shows human umbilical stem cells can improve corneal transparency and thickness in laboratory mice. The treatment has the potential to replace corneal transplants as an alternative therapy for severe genetic and corneal eye diseases.
Researchers have found that transplanting human umbilical mesenchymal stem cells into mouse models can restore transparency to cloudy and thin corneas. The stem cells can survive in the stroma for over three months without rejection and become functional corneal cells.
Researchers found no significant endothelial cell loss after LASIK and PRK procedures. The study suggests that corneas after these surgeries are suitable for transplantation, with no difference in cell loss compared to normal eyes.
A research study is being conducted to assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational corneal inlay in reducing the need for reading glasses. The inlay, called AcuFocus Corneal Inlay (ACI), is intended to improve near vision in patients with presbyopia, a natural loss of near vision that occurs after age 45.
Dr. H. Dwight Cavanagh, a renowned UT Southwestern ophthalmologist, has been awarded the Cornea Society's highest honor, the Castroviejo Medal. His groundbreaking research on corneal biology and transplantation has improved treatments for eye diseases.
A comprehensive review confirms the safety and efficacy of Descemet's Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK) as a treatment for corneal endothelial diseases, which affect 85% of corneal transplants in the US. In contrast, a type of antibiotic fluoroquinolone has been linked to double vision in some patients.
Researchers at the University of New South Wales used a simple contact lens to rehabilitate damaged eye surfaces by cultivating patients' own stem cells. The procedure significantly improved sight within weeks and has potential applications in other organs.
Gary Conrad's research on cornea development has led to knowledge that could improve LASIK surgery by strengthening the stromal flap and allowing it to permanently bind back to the cornea. The lab group is testing a possible solution using riboflavin and UVA light.
A study by Pitt researchers found that injecting human corneal stem cells into mice with scarred and hazy eyes restored transparency. The cells were able to remodel scar-like tissue back to normal, suggesting a potential treatment for corneal blindness and vision impairment.
Researchers at Cardiff University are making discoveries about the eye using X-ray scattering techniques at Diamond Light Source, shedding light on keratoconus and its effects. The study aims to advance laser surgeries like LASIK and develop artificial corneas to improve the quality of life for those affected by serious eye diseases.
Research shows corneal epithelium contains stem cells that generate two different epithelial tissues, contradicting prevailing opinion. These cells are activated in everyday renewal, while limbal stem cells respond to serious injuries.
A landmark study shows that corneas from older donors (up to 75 years old) are as successful for transplants after five years as those from younger donors. This finding allows for the expansion of the donor pool, addressing a shortage in the Dallas area.
Studies among Ophthalmology's April 2008 issue highlight the potential link between natural light exposure before birth and the development of myopia. Researchers also examine the suitability of older donor corneas for transplant surgery, finding that those from donors aged 66-75 have comparable quality to younger donors.
A new technique using a corneal confocal microscope may enable the diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy, a nerve disorder affecting up to 50% of diabetic patients. This instant, non-invasive test could lead to earlier treatment and improved health outcomes for millions of Australians.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new eye-staining technique using Lissamine green to detect early stages of dry eye syndrome. The test reveals staining patterns that indicate the severity and progression of the condition, allowing for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment options.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin are developing a new tool to improve LASIK surgery outcomes by measuring eye tissue stiffness using tiny bubbles generated inside eye tissue. The technology could also provide a new treatment for presbyopia, a age-related difficulty focusing on close objects.
Researchers at the University of Rochester developed custom-designed soft contact lenses to correct visual acuity in individuals with keratoconic eyes. The lenses feature irregular front surface profiles that address specific aberrations of the cornea and crystalline lens, resulting in improved vision for subjects.
Researchers at University of Cincinnati have found that bone marrow stem cells can differentiate into keratocan-producing cells, potentially treating abnormal corneal cell growth. The study showed that injected stem cells altered the shape and healed abnormal corneas in animal models within a week
A new study from the University of Illinois Chicago found that LASIK surgery is safe and effective for patients aged 40-69 years old, with reliable predictability of correction. The study also highlighted challenges faced by older adults, including difficulty with near vision after LASIK due to presbyopia.
Researchers successfully transplanted a single donor cornea into three patients with different eye conditions, demonstrating the feasibility of customized component corneal transplantation. The procedure allows for optimal use of available donor tissue, particularly in countries with limited quality and quantity of donor corneas.
A study comparing LASIK and LASEK found no clinically significant differences between the two procedures. Both procedures were deemed safe, effective, and predictable for treating low to moderate myopia.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have developed a new artificial cornea that improves vision in infants and children with cloudy or damaged corneas. The device shows promising results, restoring vision and eliminating the need for repeated surgeries and infections.
A soluble form of a receptor called sflt-1 traps factors that enable growth of vision-obstructing blood vessels in the cornea. By eliminating sflt-1, researchers found that mice corneas consistently developed blood vessels.
Scientists identified SFLT-1 as the protein responsible for preventing blood vessel growth in corneas. Deactivating this protein allows angiogenesis to occur, leading to conditions such as macular degeneration and cancer. The discovery opens doors to new treatments by harnessing the natural anti-angiogenic properties of the eye.
A Queensland University of Technology study found that eye pressure and shape change with eyelid movement, especially in people with downward gaze. The research suggests a link between eyelid pressure and corneal astigmatism, potentially explaining vision changes in older age.
A study found that herpes virus infects cornea cells through a process similar to how phagocytes engulf foreign invaders, allowing the virus to evade the immune system. This unusual pathway opens up new strategies for developing therapies against ocular herpes and has implications for understanding other herpes virus infections.
Researchers at Stanford University have created a novel biomimetic material called Duoptix TM that can be used to develop an artificial cornea. The hydrogel material is transparent, permeable to nutrients, and resistant to surface proteins and inflammation, making it suitable for surgical implantation.
Researchers identify VEGFR-3 as a key factor in preventing blood vessel growth in the cornea. The protein acts as a sink to neutralize growth factors, maintaining a blood-vessel-free cornea essential for clear vision. This discovery holds promise for treating eye disease and cancer.
A study documents a sharp increase in Fusarium keratitis cases among contact lens wearers in Singapore, with nearly all patients wearing soft lenses and using ReNu brand cleaning solution. The outbreak has led to severe, sight-threatening lesions requiring hospitalization and corneal transplantation.
The study found no differences in visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, or perception of stray light between the two types of LASIK. Bladeless LASIK showed greater corneal backscatter initially, but patients perceived no difference in vision after three months.
Researchers discovered that CD11b-positive macrophages play a crucial role in the development of lymphangiogenesis in the cornea during inflammatory conditions. These macrophages transform into endothelial cells or stimulate the division of existing lymphatic cells, leading to the formation of new lymph vessels.
Researchers have identified 141 distinct proteins in the healthy human cornea, including classical blood proteins and anti-angiogenic factors. This comprehensive protein study may lead to future therapeutics for various corneal disorders, improving clinical classifications and potentially generating artificial corneas for transplantation.
A new technique using a femtosecond-pulsed laser can create highly precise incisions, leading to faster healing and stronger transplants. Clinical trials are expected to begin this summer, offering hope for patients with corneal disorders.
Researchers evaluated microscope image quality and endothelial cell density to assess corneal health. Current system shows promise, but improvements needed in some eye banks to enhance image quality and accuracy of counting cells.
Researcher Conrad focuses on elucidating molecular steps in embryonic animal eyes to develop new treatments for corneal transplants. His team uses mass spectrometry to analyze polysaccharides and uncover the influence of sugars on cell decisions.
A recent study found that environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can significantly impact LASIK surgery results. The study of 191 patients revealed that indoor humidity had the largest impact on whether enhancement surgery was required, while outdoor temperature and humidity in the weeks before surgery also played a role.
A 7-month-old boy named Lukas received a groundbreaking artificial corneal transplant using the AlphaCor device, offering renewed hope for patients with high-risk traditional corneal transplants. The procedure's success marks a significant milestone in the development of this innovative technology.