Time to re-write textbooks as the new ”Dua Layer” is found hidden in the eye
A new layer of the cornea has been discovered in the human eye, a breakthrough experts say could ‘rewrite the opthalmology textbooks’.
Harminder Dua from the University of Nottingham found the new layer , which is just 0.001 mm thick – within the cornea, the clear window at the front of the eye.
He say’s it could help surgeons dramatically improve outcomes for patients undergoing corneal grafts and transplants.
The Dua Layer can help significantly as during surgery, tiny air bubble are injected into corneal stroma via the ‘big bubble technique so if the bubble bursts it causes damage to the eye however, if the air bubble is injected under Dua’s layer instead of above it, the layer’s strength reduces the risk of tearing.
Diseases of the cornea including acute hydrops, Descematocele and pre-Descemet’s dystrophies may be affected by the discovery of Dua’s layer which is a huge discover.
Professor Dua said: “This is a major discovery that will mean that ophthalmology textbooks will literally need to be re-written.
The new layer that has been discovered is located at the back of the cornea between the corneal stroma and Descemet’s membrane.
Although it is just 15 microns thick – the entire cornea is around 550 microns thick or 0.5mm – it is incredibly tough and is strong enough to be able to withstand one and a half to two bars of pressure.
