A newly developed elastic gel developed by researchers at the University of Tokyo and the University of Tsukuba is showing promise as a replacement for the vitreous in various retinal diseases, such as retinal detachment.
According to researchers, they developed a hydrogel with a low polymer concentration that is administered in a liquid form and turns to a jelly-like substance within a few minutes of injection into the eye. Researchers reportedly tested the gel in rabbit eyes, reportedly finding swelling pressures of hydrogel-treated rabbits exhibited no significant differences from those treated only with salt water, and hydrogel-implanted rabbits showed no signs of side effects, even after 410 days of treatment, suggesting that the new material is not rejected by the body and safe.
Additionally, scientists were reportedly able to show that rabbits affected with retinal detachment recovered once they were treated with the new hydrogels.
While the efficacy and safety of this new hydrogel still need to be tested in humans, the researchers reportedly believe it would free patients from having to keep their head stabilized in a face-down position after vitreous surgery, a procedure necessary for the injected silicone oil or gas bubbles to push the detached retina.
The study was recently published in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering.
Click here to read the full press release.
Like what you read? Follow OphthalmologyWeb to keep up with our latest articles, news and events. Plus, get special offers and more delivered to your inbox.
Source: University of Tokyo