Envisioning a New Future in Eyecare: Man Receives First Complete Eye Transplant Ever

Envisioning a New Future in Eyecare: Man Receives First Complete Eye Transplant Ever

by RSEA TX | January 1, 2024

Although surgeons have been able to transplant corneas successfully for years, the quest for a complete eye transplant has remained elusive. That is, until now.

Surgeons say Aaron James, who suffered a high-voltage electrical accident, is the first patient who has undergone the world’s first complete eye transplant on a man.

Although it is not certain James, a military veteran, will regain vision, this breakthrough is a pivotal moment in a decades-long search to restore sight to millions of people.

James, a high-voltage utility line worker from Arkansas, lost most of his face when it accidentally touched a 7,200-volt live wire in 2021. He had to have his left eye removed because of the pain.

A Dream Team To Do The Eye Transplant

In May of 2023, James underwent numerous surgeries. In all, more than 140 healthcare professionals were involved to help replace half of his face, provide him with a prosthetic arm, and – perhaps the most complex of all – the eye transplant.

The donated face and eye came from a single male donor in his 30s. During the surgery, doctors injected adult stem cells from the donor’s bone marrow into the optic nerve to encourage its repair.

Doctors say the donated eye is recovering well and looks remarkably healthy. The breakthrough surgery offers scientists an unprecedented window into how the human eye tries to heal. In fact, one of the reasons the doctors are most optimistic James may regain his sight in his left eye is that there is direct blood flow to the retina – the part of the eye that sends images to the brain.

He says he is “grateful beyond words” to the donor and their family for making the surgery possible and describes the eye transplant and its possibilities “life-changing”.

The future holds incredible breakthroughs and miracles for our eyes and vision. Even today, with the help of regular checkups and proper eyecare, maintaining healthy vision for our lifetimes is more likely than ever. That’s why regular eye exams are so important. The Vision Plan from your association and AMBA covers annual WellVision exams, 100% coverage for most lenses, even progressives, and thousands of nationwide in-network providers. Sign up today – acceptance is GUARANTEED! – at www.AMBAdentalvision.com or call 866-979-0497.

Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/surgeons-new-york-announce-worlds-first-eye-transplant-2023-11-09/

Share:
RECENT POSTS
Three Advantages – and One Risk - of Aging in Place
Three Advantages – and One Risk - of Aging in Place

The overwhelming majority of Americans prefer to enjoy retirement “aging in place,” continuing to live


Read More

Want a Safer Home? Don’t “Overlook” the Importance of Good Vision
Want a Safer Home? Don’t “Overlook” the Importance of Good Vision

Falls are one of the most significant health risks for older Americans. According to reports, more than one out of four


Read More

Now That’s a (Fresh) Breath of Air! Remedies to Overcome Bad Breath.
Now That’s a (Fresh) Breath of Air! Remedies to Overcome Bad Breath.

You brush and floss every day. Maybe you also use a tongue scraper and gargle with mouthwash. But still, somehow,


Read More

Book Lovers Enjoy More Than Just a Good Story: The Health Benefits of Reading for Older Adults
Book Lovers Enjoy More Than Just a Good Story: The Health Benefits of Reading for Older Adults

What if there was a miracle drug that could help reduce stress, enhance memory, improve sleep, provide community, and supply


Read More

©2024 Retired State Employees Association, Inc. All Right Reserved.