Prof. Lyndon Da Cruz of London's Moorfield Eye Hospital makes a breakthrough in 'Cure for Blindness'

A BRITISH pensioner has become the first person to undergo revolutionary eye surgery aimed at curing blindness in millions of people.

The 60-year-old woman, who had severely impaired sight and was in danger of going blind, is said to have had no complications so far following the three-hour operation.

The surgical team hopes to determine how successful the treatment was by early December.  The woman has asked to remain anonymous.

The scientists behind the pioneering procedure hope it will dramatically transform lives, allowing the blind to recognise faces of loved ones again and regain the ability to carry out everyday tasks like reading and driving.

Professor Lyndon Da Cruz carried out the stem cell operation at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.

The procedure involves taking a single stem cell from an embryo and growing it into a “patch” of cells that can be transplanted into the eye.

Experts hope to be able to reverse vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

It affects a quarter of over 60s and more than half of over 75s. The condition causes loss of central vision, usually in both eyes. Vision becomes increasingly blurred, colours appear less vibrant and familiar faces become difficult to recognise.

The woman who underwent the operation is one of 10 patients taking part in the pioneering trial. Other patients will undergo surgery over the next 18 months.



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