Prof Irit Bahar with Jamal Furani, the first-in-human KPro patient

A 78-year-old Israeli man, Jamal Furani, regained vision after he was implanted with an artificial corneal implant, giving hope to millions of corneal blind people currently relying on donor tissue.  

"The surgical procedure was straight forward and the result exceeded all of our expectations," said Professor Irit Bahar, ophthalmology director at the Rabin Medical Centre who performed the Corneat Vision Kpro implant surgery. “The moment we took off the bandages was an emotional and significant moment. Moments like these are the fulfilment of our calling as doctors. We are proud of being at the forefront of this exciting and meaningful project which will undoubtedly impact the lives of millions."

Furani, who suffered from oedema and other eye diseases, was able to recognise his relatives and read text shortly after having the Corneat implant transplanted. He is one of 10 patients approved for the experimental trial procedure, including blind patients who are unsuitable for, or have failed one or more corneal transplants.  

Corneat is planning a second study later this year with broader indications to gain approval for its artificial cornea as a first line treatment, hopefully reducing the need for donor tissues.