FDA Approves Israeli Non-Degradable Synthetic Eye Tissue

The American Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an Israeli-made synthetic tissue substitute for the eye that will address the worldwide shortage of donors. 

Israeli startup CorNeat Vision has developed the EverPatch, what it says is the world’s first non-degradable synthetic tissue for ophthalmic surgery. 

It’s made of a polymer that stimulates the cells to accept it and incorporate it into the eye tissue, and is intended to reinforce the sclera (the white outer layer of the eyeball).

The EverPatch was designed to replace the use of donor tissue, which poses the risk of disease transmission.

It will be launched initially in the leading ophthalmic centers in the US in the coming months, and expand nationwide later in the year. 

“We are extremely excited to introduce the CorNeat EverPatch to the US market,” said Almog Aley-Raz, CorNeat Vision’s CEO and VP R&D.

“It is the first device that leverages the EverMatrix, our core tissue-integrating material platform technology, originally developed for our corneal prosthesis program [which replaces artificial and donated corneas].

“EverMatrix presents a significant business opportunity as it is the only synthetic non-degradable patch material in ocular surgery.

“This biocompatible material has the potential for wider use in soft tissue reinforcement, biomechanical integration of implants with surrounding tissue, fabrication of membranes, and concealment of implants and sensors,” he said.

“I cannot overemphasize the potential impact of this technology on human health. This recent FDA clearance of our first device for ophthalmic use advances us toward our ultimate goal of promoting human health and equality.”