Miracle eye surgery to bring patients sight back

What is an osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis (OOKP)? An osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis (OOKP) is a type of prosthetic cornea. OOKP surgery, also called tooth in eye surgery, is a multi-stage procedure to create the prosthetic and implant it in the eye. The OOKP is made partly of tooth and jawbone tissue to help prevent rejection of the implant. OOKP surgery is reserved for those with bilateral (in both eyes) corneal blindness. It is a very complex procedure, so it has several criteria for potential candidates. Despite its grim name, tooth in eye surgery can be a life-changing procedure. It can restore vision for certain patients who have no other options.

When would tooth in eye surgery be used? OOKP surgery restores vision for patients with bilateral, end-stage ocular surface disease (OSD). The ocular surface is made up of the cornea and the conjunctiva, and OSD can occur if they are damaged. Bilateral means the damage is in both eyes, and end-stage means the damage has resulted in blindness.

March 8, 2025 | 5:10 am