Achieving Optimal Health: Revolutionary Blink Restoration Technology

Blinking is a reflex that most people do without even thinking about it, occurring about 17 times a minute for the average person. However, up to 10,000 people a year lose the ability to blink, a condition known as neurotrophic keratopathy (N.K.). N.K. is caused by damage to the nerves that provide sensation to the surface of the eye, particularly the cornea. This damage can result from infections, trauma to the head or neck, or brain and skull base tumors. When a person loses the ability to blink, it can lead to serious vision problems, even blindness.

Traditionally, treatment for N.K. has included eye drops and surgery to protect the eye by permanently closing a portion of it. However, these treatments do not address the underlying issue of nerve damage. A new technique called corneal neurotization is now being performed at UNC hospitals to help restore vision in patients with N.K. During the surgery, healthy nerve tissue is taken from the lower leg and used to reconnect the damaged nerves near the eyebrow to the cornea. This allows the nerves to regenerate and restore sensation to the cornea.

Recovery from corneal neurotization can be slow, taking up to six months for patients to notice improved vision and sensation. Despite the slow healing process, this technique has the potential to be life-changing for those who have lost their ability to blink. By addressing the root cause of nerve damage, corneal neurotization offers hope for restoring vision and preventing blindness in patients with N.K.