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.
Related: 6 Recent Groundbreaking Health & Medicine Advancements
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.
Related: Incredible: This Man Got the First Double-Arm Transplant
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
Research Proven: This Plant Fights Cancer and Diabetes!
The field of medical research has returned to its "roots" in looking for natural remedies, such as Bitter Melon, which inhibits cancer and fights diabetes.
The Science Behind Why Laughter is the Best Medicine
They say laughter is the best medicine. But why exactly do we laugh?
Scientists Create a Human Heart in a Lab
After a new breakthrough in the United States, it looks like scientists will be able to grow synthetic hearts in the coming years. Take a look.
Study Shows: Microplastics Found in Scary Places...
A subsequent study in Hawai'i, analyzing donated placentas from 2006 to 2021, underscored a significant rise in plastic contamination over time.
10 New Things We've Learned About The Brain
We have learned some astonishing new things about the human brain in recent times.
The Art Form Inspiring Scientific Innovation for Centuries
This beautifully-animated video shows you the history of how scientific breakthrough and science fiction always go hand in hand.
What is Your Consciousness? A Remarkable Video...
This video by Ted-ed searches to explain the origin of consciousness as well as what is consciousness.
Are Underwater Turbines the Answer to Our Energy Question?
One of the most promising technologies in the renewable energy market is the ocean. Learn all about it.
Remembering the Life and Wisdom of Stephen Hawking
Stephen Hawking possessed one of the greatest minds the world has ever seen, but was also impaired by a debilitating disease. Here are his life ant times.
7 Weird Facts About the Human Voice That Will Surprise You
We bet you didn’t know these peculiar facts about the human voice.
What Does Medicine ACTUALLY Do In the Body? Fascinating.
What really happens in our bodies when we take medicine, have you ever wondered? This video will answer your question.
6 Weird and Creepy Medical Tools of the Past
After seeing these weird and creepy medical devices of the past, you’ll be thankful you live in the 21st century. Take a look for yourself.
Fascinating Science: How Old Can We Actually Get?
All things being equal, and technology continually progressing - How old can a human body really get?
Science Breakthrough: An Immunization Against Skin Cancer?
This scientific breakthrough offers hope for those who are struggling with skin cancer. You are now invited to discover more about this revolutionary vaccine.
These Fire Tricks Will Wow You, But Don't Try Them!
These fire tricks are incredible to look at, but please don't try this at home...
24 Confusing Optical Illusions Explained - Fascinating!
How do our eyes fool the brain? Let's find out as a neuroscientist explains the truth behind the most confusing optical illusions.
Let's Talk About Size, From Big to Huge.
an incredible discovery that leads us to a better and better understanding of these objects' true size.
Is it REALLY the Coffee that Wakes Us Up in the Morning?
A recent study has revealed that the coffee you drink may just be a placebo...
Incredible New Bionic Arm Fuses With Woman's Nerves
Karin's bionic hand is real sci fi, making her one of the first true cyborgs.
Why Are Your Ears Ringing? The Causes Explained
Nearly 15% of the human population worldwide are plagued by this strange sensation, but most people don't know the causes behind ringing in the ears...
These Ancient Inventions Have Got Scientists Stumped!
Here are 12 items from long ago which prove that our ancestors possessed knowledge and skills far more advanced than we once believed them to be.
You Won't Believe That These Things Exist in Japan...
If there's one place on this planet that well and truly at the forefront of modern technology, it has got to be Japan, as these inventions prove...
6 Intriguing Archeological Finds of the 21st Century
These archaeological and paleontological discoveries were made in the past 10 years and they're equally fascinating and intriguing...
What Does the Appendix Actually DO?
Dr. Berg explains, in this video, all about the appendix and what it actually does in our body.
Chocolate Exposed! Here's What It Does to Your Brain!
Just what is it that makes chocolate so irresistible to so many people around the world? Find all of the answers in the article.
Scientists Finally Know Why We Love Cute Things
We find some things to be irresistibly cute. But why? Let’s find out.
The Channel Tunnel - The 7th Wonder of the Modern World!
The construction of the Channel Tunnel is said to be an impossible feat!
WHY is Sugar So Devilishy Addictive?
There seems to be a fascinating scientific explanation for why our will power is weak when it comes to sugar!
Travel From the Sun to Pluto With Our Interactive Guide!
The solar system is a fascinating place, and we wanted to bring you an interactive journey that you can use to travel through it. Enjoy the journey!
These Expensive Megaprojects Proved to be a Waste of Time
Not all megaprojects are useful. Here are some worthless ones.
This Humanoid Robot May Join the Workforce Very Soon...
Meet Digit – a bipedal robot that's ready to join human workers at warehouses around the world as early as 2024.
This Incredible Documentary Takes You Into the Human Body
A beautiful and graphically advanced animation sheds light on the mysteries of the human body.
This Man Built an Automatic Train System for Trash Cans!
Wouldn’t it be cool if a robot picked up and moved our garbage out for pickup with the push of a button?
Ancient Skull Found In China Unlike Any Human Ever Seen
A newly-discovered skull in China had baffled scientists. This could mean we might have discovered an entirely new species of humans.
You Wouldn't Believe How Far Technology Has Come
Take a look at the advancements of technology in this video. Impressive.
The Science Behind Why Laughter is the Best Medicine
They say laughter is the best medicine. But why exactly do we laugh?
These Inventions Prove the Middle Ages Were Not So “Dark”
These groundbreaking inventions prove the Middle Ages were not so “dark,” after all!
12 Mind-Blowing Archaeological Discoveries Of 2022
Archaeologists made some remarkable discoveries in 2022. Here is a look at the most fascinating ones.
Is There Any Way To Destroy or Deflect Asteroids?
Watch an interview with Cathy Plesko, a leading scientist working on preparing for the dangers of an asteroid attack
5 Robotics Trends Anticipated in 2024
What does 2024 have in store for the field of robotics?
What Would You Do if You Had an Extra Thumb?
This revolutionary invention has the potential to revolutionize the field of prosthetics.
16 Surprising Things I Never Knew About Sleeping!
Who knew there was so much we don't know about our most popular activity! Here are 16 facts you may not have known about your sleep.
Are Smartphones Making Us Stupid? This Will Surprise You!
If you use a smartphone you need to see this!
Six Inventions Da-Vinci Made Ahead of Their Time
He created and envisioned many inventions that were sometimes even centuries ahead of their time. Was there ever a genius as great as Da-Vinci?
25 Pics Showing How People in the Past Imagined the Future
Let’s see how the people of the past imagined the future and find out if their fun predictions came true with these 25 vintage pictures
Revealed! This Is How Far We Have Sent Crafts into Space!
Ever wondered just how far humans have sent spacecrafts into space? If the answer is yes, then this video is just what you've been looking for.
Science Proves: These 10 Bible Stories Probably Did Happen
The Bible describes many seemingly supernatural cases, but today, science can show that they might have indeed happened.