corneal blindness tagged posts

First 3D-printed Human Corneas

Dr. Steve Swioklo and Professor Che Connon with a dyed cornea. Credit: Newcastle University, UK

Dr. Steve Swioklo and Professor Che Connon with a dyed cornea. Credit: Newcastle University, UK

The first human corneas have been 3D printed by scientists at Newcastle University, UK. It means the technique could be used in the future to ensure an unlimited supply of corneas. As the outermost layer of the human eye, the cornea has an important role in focusing vision. Yet there is a significant shortage of corneas available to transplant, with 10 million people worldwide requiring surgery to prevent corneal blindness as a result of diseases such as trachoma, an infectious eye disorder.

In addition, almost 5 million people suffer total blindness due to corneal scarring caused by burns, lacerations, abrasion or disease...

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