Injectable and Biodegradable Vitreous Substitute to Restore Vision Function Following Retinal Detachment
Abstract
The eye is filled with a jelly-like material, the vitreous, which holds everything in place, including the retina, which is responsiblefor vision. With traumatic brain injury, concussions, or just with age, the retina can detach, resulting in blindness if left untreated.The retina can be re-secured in place by first using a laser for re-attachment followed by injection of a vitreous substitute. Thedilemma is that current vitreous substitutes are problematic. Patients typically have blurred vision for 3 weeks, which impedestheir ability to work and serve. Moreover, when treated with gases, patients have to lie face down for several days and cannotfly whereas when they are treated with oils, patients usually require a second surgery. The current vitreous substitutes are suboptimal and negatively impact quality of life. We invented a completely new strategy to overcome blindness due to retinadetachment. Specifically, we invented a vitreous substitute comprised of a hydrogel that is stably crosslinked, non-swelling, andmatches the physical properties of the native vitreous, enabling restoration of vision.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1194130
Entities
People
- Adam Forman
- Hong Cui
- Molly Shoichet
Organizations
- University of Toronto