What's Happening?
Researchers at Occidental College and the University of California, Irvine, have developed a potential new method for corneal repair that does not involve lasers, as is typical with LASIK surgery. This technique, known as electromechanical reshaping, temporarily makes the cornea malleable using short bursts of electricity, allowing it to be molded without invasive tools. Initial experiments on rabbit eyeballs have shown promising results, with the cornea maintaining its structural integrity and cell viability. The researchers aim to further test this method on living rabbits before considering human trials.
AD
Why It's Important?
This development could revolutionize the field of ophthalmology by providing a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional LASIK surgery. LASIK, while effective, can weaken the cornea and cause side effects such as dry eyes and visual disturbances. The new method could mitigate these risks, offering a more accessible option for individuals with myopia, farsightedness, or astigmatism. If successful, this technique could expand treatment options and improve outcomes for patients, potentially reducing the need for corrective eyewear and enhancing quality of life.
What's Next?
The research team plans to conduct further studies on living rabbits to assess the long-term effects and safety of the procedure. If these studies are successful, the next step would be to seek approval for human clinical trials. The researchers also hope to explore the technique's applicability to other vision impairments, such as astigmatism and cloudy vision. However, securing funding remains a challenge, which could impact the timeline for further development and testing.
