Clinical Report: A Tooth for an Eye: Restoring Sight When There is No Hope

Overview

The Moorfields South OOKP service has initiated a surgical pathway for osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis (OOKP). This procedure targets patients with end-stage ocular surface disease who are unsuitable for traditional corneal transplants.

Background

Osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis (OOKP) is a surgical technique designed to restore vision in patients with severely damaged ocular surfaces. It is relevant for individuals with severe chemical burns or autoimmune conditions. The multidisciplinary approach required for OOKP highlights the collaboration necessary among various specialties.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

• The first patient on the Moorfields OOKP pathway underwent stage 1 surgery in November 2024 and later underwent stage 2 surgery in March 2025.
• OOKP is designed for patients with end-stage ocular surface disease, often due to severe dryness or scarring.
• Common indications for OOKP include autoimmune conditions like Stevens–Johnson syndrome and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid.
• Glaucoma is a prevalent complication in OOKP patients, affecting approximately 80-85% of them.
• Advancements include improved imaging techniques for monitoring optic nerve health and an endoscopic approach for surgical interventions.

Clinical Implications

Management of complications, particularly glaucoma, is essential for maintaining patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The launch of the OOKP service at Moorfields South marks a development in the treatment of severe ocular surface disease.

Related Resources & Content

1. NHS England, Service specification: Osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis service for corneal blindness (Adults), 2023 -- Osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis service
2. Taloni A, Colliardo P, Taloni M, Falcinelli G, et al., Br J Ophthalmol, 2025 -- Lifelong experience of modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis implantation over 50 years
3. Optometric Management — Lessons
4. Eyecare Business — Glasses Give Hope
5. Eyecare Business — Low Vision
6. Eyecare Business — Opticians Step into Low Vision
7. Optometric Management — Lessons
8. Eyecare Business — Glasses Give Hope
9. Eyecare Business — Low Vision
10. NHS England » Service specification: Osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis service for corneal blindness (Adults)
11. Lifelong experience of modified osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis implantation over 50 years. Taloni A, Colliardo P, Taloni M, Falcinelli G, et al. Br J Ophthalmol 2025;109:1232-1238.
12. Tooth-in-eye standardized longitudinal radiological CT monitoring: Clinical impact in a fourteen-year series - ScienceDirect