June 15, 2018 - Eye Health
Hey folks, it’s Dr. Sam and I have a news update – the FDA just approved the first artificial iris implant for the human eye.
The iris is the colored part of the eye. It’s made of connective tissue and it helps regulate the amount of light that gets into the eyeball. People with deformed irises or no irises will really benefit from this implant.
So people diagnosed with a condition called Aniridia. This is a genetic disorder that affects between 50,000 – 100,000 adults and children. This technology may reduce light sensitivity and improve cosmesis. Some other folks that will benefit are people diagnosed with albinism, people who have had melanoma surgery in the eye, and also people who’ve suffered eye trauma.
There was a randomized study of 389 subjects who received this artificial Iris implant and 70 percent of them reported reduced glare and light sensitivity and an overall improved quality of life. 94 percent of those folks were thrilled with the results of receiving this implant.
My one concern is when children get this silicone iris implant will how will it hold up over the long term. We don’t know that because it is such a new technology. But aside from that concern, I think this is a breakthrough technology and will help thousands of people who have problems with their iris.
Well, that’s my message for today. I want to thank you so much for tuning in. And until next time take good care.