A groundbreaking treatment involving the injection of a low-cost gel into the eye has successfully restored a woman’s vision. Nicki Guy, 47, regained her eyesight after experiencing hypotony, a condition characterized by low eye pressure. The pioneering procedure, led by experts at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, has allowed Nicki to resume activities like driving and skiing with her son.
Nicki, a communications officer for the Thomas Pocklington Trust, began receiving treatment in May 2019. Her vision issues began following the birth of her son, leading to a diagnosis of chronic anterior uveitis, which causes inflammation in the front of the eye. Despite being symptom-free initially, complications arose in 2017.
Traditionally, hypotony is treated with silicone oil injections to increase eye pressure, but Moorfields specialists opted for injections of HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) to avoid potential eye toxicity. This clear gel, commonly used in surgeries to maintain eye shape and protect the surface, was injected into Nicki’s eye every two weeks for a year.
Consultant ophthalmologist Harry Petrushkin noted that before the treatment, the vision of the eight patients involved was poor, with Nicki barely able to discern hand movements in front of her eye. Now, with restored vision in her left eye, Nicki’s hope to drive again has been rekindled after surrendering her license in 2021 due to her condition.
Despite regaining sight in her left eye, Nicki has lost vision in her right eye due to retinal detachment in the past year. However, previous successful HPMC injections in the right eye had been effective. Nicki, who had no significant eye issues prior, discovered her condition after a routine eye test post-childbirth.
Throughout her journey, Nicki’s resilience and determination have been unwavering, propelling her to a new career in communications with the Thomas Pocklington Trust. Expressing immense gratitude towards Mr. Petrushkin and Moorfields, Nicki highlighted the impact of the treatment not only on her but also on other patients benefiting from the innovative approach.