Laser-free vision correction uses electrical current to reshape eye
3 days ago
- #vision-correction
- #medical-innovation
- #non-invasive-surgery
- Scientists have developed a non-invasive technique called electromechanical reshaping (EMR) to correct vision by reshaping the cornea using mild electric current and pH shift.
- EMR reverses myopia without surgery, offering a painless, blade-free alternative to LASIK, which involves tissue removal and structural changes to the eye.
- The cornea, made of collagen, is reshaped temporarily by altering its pH with a platinum electrode 'lens,' hardening back into the new shape once the current stops.
- Early trials on rabbit eyeballs showed successful correction of myopia without incisions, lasers, or trauma, though further animal studies are needed before clinical use.
- EMR is potentially cheaper, widely applicable, and reversible compared to LASIK, but remains in early development stages.
- The technique was discovered accidentally by researchers exploring living tissues as moldable materials through chemical modification.