‘Miracle’ eye implant ‘to lighten blind people’s lives’

LONDON - Thousands of blind people may now get their sight back-thanks to a ‘miracle’ eye implant developed by British surgeons.

The 15-minute procedure involves implanting a tiny device so small that it can barely be seen in the eye.

The surgery, being carried out at Manchester Royal Infirmary, has been designed to prevent glaucoma, which is caused when pressure in the eye rises triggered by natural fluids failing to drain away because of a blockage.

Scientists have developed a tiny titanium channel called a stent, which is inserted to act as a permanent drainage route.

Jackie Baker, a part-time NHS manager at Manchester Royal Infirmary, was diagnosed with glaucoma five years ago and became one of the first patients operated on by surgeon Leon Au in July.

“I’d been reading about the new device and knew it was coming to Manchester so I contacted Au who decided I was a suitable candidate. It was all over quickly and the pressure in my eye is good and low and likely to stay that way,” the Daily Express quoted her as saying. (ANI)