Blind Woman Regains Sight After Innovative 'Tooth-in-Eye' Surgery

In a remarkable medical breakthrough, a 75-year-old woman from British Columbia, Canada, has regained her sight after a decade of blindness. Gail Lane lost her vision 10 years ago due to an autoimmune disorder that scarred her corneas, but earlier this year, she underwent a rare and complex procedure that has transformed her life.

The procedure, known as osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis (OOKP) or 'tooth-in-eye' surgery, involved implanting a prosthetic cornea on a peg made from Gail's own tooth into her eye socket. Over the weeks following the surgery, Gail's vision gradually improved, and she was able to see the difference between light and dark, then movements, and eventually, the world around her.

Gail is now able to see her partner, whom she met after losing her sight, as well as her service dog, Piper, for the first time. She can also pick out her own outfits without relying on a volunteer app, a simple task many take for granted. While Gail is still unable to see her own face, she is hopeful that a new pair of glasses will soon allow her to do so.

The groundbreaking surgery, performed by Dr. Greg Moloney at Vancouver's Mount Saint Joseph Hospital, is the first of its kind to be conducted in Canada. It is a complex procedure that utilizes the patient's tooth as a strong structure to hold the artificial cornea, reducing the risk of rejection by the body.

For Gail, the journey has been long and challenging, but the results have been life-changing. She is now looking forward to regaining her independence and exploring the world with her newfound vision.