In a groundbreaking procedure, surgeons have completed the world's first-ever transplantation of an entire human eye. However, whether the man will regain eyesight in his newly transplanted left eye is still unknown.
Aaron James' face and one eye were severely damaged in a high-voltage power line accident. The 46-year-old's right eye is still functional. However, NYU Langone Health physicians thought that replacing the lost one would improve the aesthetic features of his new face by supporting the transplanted eye socket and lid.
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There have been successful corneal transplants performed for a number of years, but the recent surgical advancement involved not only the transplantation of the cornea but also the removal of a part of the face and the entire left eye. This advanced procedure included the integration of the donor's blood supply and optic nerve. Aaron James became the beneficiary of this groundbreaking surgical breakthrough.
James sought facial transplantation at NYU Langone Health, where the procedures took place in May this year. Although complete eye transplantation had been partially successful in animals, restoring partial vision, this groundbreaking surgery had never been performed on a living person until now.
Meanwhile, the surgeons reported that James was doing well after the dual transplant. They also stated that the donated eye appeared to be in excellent condition.
Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, one of the leading surgeons on the team, said: "The mere fact that we've accomplished the first successful whole-eye transplant with a face is a tremendous feat many have long thought was not possible."
"We've made one major step forward and have paved the way for the next chapter to restore vision," Dr. Rodriguez added.
Dr. Rodriguez told news outlets that they were not claiming to be able to restore sight. However, there is no doubt in their minds that we are getting closer.
Some experts thought the eye would rapidly lose moisture and start resembling a raisin. However, when Rodriguez propped open James' left eyelid last month, the donated hazel-colored eye was as plump and fluid-filled as his own blue eye. Doctors found normal blood flow and no evidence of rejection.
Currently, the researchers are studying scans of James' brain, which revealed intriguing signals emanating from the damaged optic nerve. The difficulty now, according to scientists, is orchestrating the regeneration of the optic nerve. Animal studies are gradually overcoming this obstacle.
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In June 2021, James, employed by a power line company, suffered a life-threatening electric shock that resulted in the loss of his left arm and the need for a prosthetic. Additionally, his damaged left eye caused so much pain that it had to be removed. Despite multiple reconstructive surgeries, his extensive facial injuries, including a missing nose and lips, proved challenging to repair.
Through a dedicated effort in physical therapy, James regained enough strength to accompany his daughter Allie to a high school homecoming, wearing a face mask and an eye patch. Despite this achievement, he still depended on breathing and feeding tubes, longing for the simple joys of smelling, tasting, and enjoying solid food once more.
In an interview, James said, "I can see out of it, that's great. But if it'll kick-start the next path in the medical field, then I'm all for it."
Cover image source: Russ Geltman/NYU Langone Health
