Surgeons at NYU Langone Health in New York have successfully performed the world’s first whole-eye transplant. The patient, Aaron James, a 46-year-old military veteran, has not yet regained sight in the transplanted eye, but the surgery marks a significant advancement in medical science.
Conducted as part of a partial face transplant following a severe work-related injury, the operation took 21 hours. Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, who led the surgical team, emphasized the historic nature of this accomplishment. “The mere fact that we transplanted an eye is a huge step forward,” he said.
Despite the current lack of visual function, the transplanted eye exhibits healthy blood vessels and a promising retina. Initially, the eye was included for cosmetic purposes in the face transplant, but the team remains hopeful about potential vision restoration.
The procedure involved innovative techniques, including the use of adult stem cells from the donor’s bone marrow to encourage healing between the donor and recipient optic nerves. This approach aims to replace damaged cells and protect the nerve, potentially paving the way for sight restoration.
James, who maintained vision in his right eye, understood the experimental nature of the surgery. He expressed his willingness to participate, even if it meant not regaining sight, to contribute to medical advancements that could benefit others in the future.
While the outcome regarding vision restoration remains uncertain, the transplant has opened new possibilities in the field of ocular medicine. Research continues into connecting nerve networks in the brain to sightless eyes, offering hope for future patients.
Dr. Rodriguez remains cautiously optimistic, stating, “I don’t think anyone can claim that he will see. But by the same token, they can’t claim that he will not see.”