First-ever eye transplant performed on a US veteran

Surgeons in New York have achieved a medical milestone by performing the world's first complete eye transplant on a man who survived an electrical accident. The patient, Aaron James, underwent a 21-hour surgery where half of his face was replaced. While cornea transplants have been successful for many years, this breakthrough marks a significant advancement in the quest to restore vision for millions of people. James, a utility line worker from Arkansas, lost most of his face when he accidentally touched a live wire with a voltage of 7,200. In addition to the eye transplant, he also underwent a rare partial face transplant. The surgery, carried out by NYU Langone Health, involved over 140 healthcare professionals. Mr. James is recovering well, and the doctors have noted that his donated eye looks remarkably healthy, although it is uncertain if he will regain vision. Dr. Eduardo Rodriguez, one of the leading surgeons, acknowledges the accomplishment of a successful whole-eye transplant with a face, which was previously believed to be impossible. The surgery provides scientists with invaluable insights regarding how the human eye heals. While sight restoration is not guaranteed, doctors have observed direct blood flow to the retina, which could potentially enable vision. Mr. James remains optimistic, stating that even if he can see out of his new eye, he is more excited about advancing medical possibilities. The progress made with Mr. James' eye is considered exceptional, according to transplant surgeon Bruce E. Gelb. The surgery used a single male donor in his 30s, and adult stem cells from the donor's bone marrow were injected into the optic nerve to support its healing. As the 19th person in the US to undergo a face transplant, Mr. James' wife, Meagan James, described the experience as a mix of emotions. Despite having his left eye removed and undergoing multiple surgeries, including one for a prosthetic arm, Mr. James considers the eye transplant life-changing and is immensely grateful to the donor and their family. He now feels like a normal person walking down the street.