Using AI to improve corneal transplant surgery
Artificial intelligence Optical Coherence Tomography Guided Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (AUTO-DALK)
This study is exploring how to make a corneal surgery called AUTO-DALK safer and more precise by using robots and artificial intelligence, which could help patients recover faster and have better results.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10771963 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the precision of Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (AUTO-DALK), a surgical procedure for treating corneal diseases. By integrating artificial intelligence and robotic technology, the team aims to automate the challenging aspects of the surgery, particularly the delicate separation of corneal layers. This approach seeks to reduce complications associated with human error, ultimately improving surgical outcomes and recovery times for patients. The interdisciplinary team includes eye surgeons and engineers working together to develop these advanced surgical devices.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from corneal diseases who are eligible for Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty.
Not a fit: Patients with corneal conditions that require full-thickness penetrating keratoplasty or those who are not candidates for any form of corneal transplant may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective corneal transplant surgeries, resulting in better visual outcomes and shorter recovery times for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic assistance and AI in surgical procedures, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in ocular surgery.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kang, Jin U — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kang, Jin U
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.