LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) will perform osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis (OOKP), a new technology for placing an artificial cornea, on patients who have lost vision in both eyes to chemical accidents, acid injuries and also due to failure of multiple corneal grafting surgeries.
Addressing a press conference here, LVPEI founder chairman GN Rao said this would provide vision to patients who are not suited to undergo conventional cornea transplants due to damage to eye surface. The new technique uses part of the dental tissue (of the same person) to support a telescopic lens.
The technique, termed as ‘a tooth for an eye’ requires a high level of surgical expertise to combine cornea and plastics. OOKP decreases the risk of rejection as its uses the dental tissue from the person, he said.
An OOKP operation will cost about Rs 40,000 and demands continuous follow-up care and check ups.