A Breakthrough in Ophthalmic Surgery: The World’s First Corneal Transplant Using the FLACIK Technique Performed at Farabi Hospital

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Internet Television Report:

For the first time worldwide, a novel corneal transplantation technique known as FLACIK (Femtolaser-Assisted Customized Intrastromal Keratoplasty) has been successfully performed by Dr. Mehrdad Mohammadpour, Professor of Ophthalmology at Tehran University of Medical Sciences and cornea subspecialist, along with his medical team. This advanced technique, regarded as an evolved version of the 360-degree CAIRS method, opens new horizons for the treatment of patients requiring corneal transplantation.

According to the Public Relations Office of the International Affairs Vice-Chancellery of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, citing the Public Relations Office of Farabi Hospital, Dr. Mohammadpour explained that several FLACIK procedures have already been carried out at Farabi Hospital; however, the most recent case is considered one of the most successful due to specific modifications applied to the tissue. He noted that this method is particularly suitable for patients who are candidates for corneal transplantation but are unable to undergo full-thickness surgery due to personal reasons, long travel distances, or the risks associated with open surgery.

Advantages of the FLACIK Technique Compared to Other Methods

Dr. Mohammadpour described FLACIK as a procedure with unique characteristics that make it a “revolution in corneal transplantation.” Highlighting its advantages, he stated:
“This surgery is performed without general anesthesia or sutures and requires only local anesthesia. The patient does not require stitches, and the recovery period is brief. Following the procedure, the patient’s vision improves progressively. Moreover, due to the nature of this technique and the use of stromal cells, the risk of graft rejection is virtually eliminated.”

The cornea subspecialist at Farabi Hospital further added: “Another major advantage of this surgery is that it does not require frequent follow-up visits or prolonged postoperative monitoring.”

A Smart Approach to Donor Tissue Management

One of the most significant aspects of the FLACIK procedure is its optimal management of eye bank resources. At a time when many patients are on waiting lists for corneal tissue, this method utilizes only the stromal cells of the cornea.

Dr. Mohammadpour elaborated: “In this procedure, we used donor tissue whose other components—such as stem cells—had already been allocated to another patient. We only used the stromal cells. Therefore, FLACIK surgery can substantially help address the limitations and shortages faced by eye banks.”

Based on these remarks, FLACIK surgery represents a promising new era in the treatment of corneal diseases such as keratoconus in Iran. This achievement at Farabi Hospital underscores the capability of Iranian specialists to adopt and implement the world’s most advanced medical technologies in order to enhance visual health and patient care.