Pocket-friendly gel revives vision in seven of eight eyes with chronic low pressure

Repeated injections of a cheap clear surgical gel (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) re-inflated eyes collapsed by chronically low pressure and restored usable vision in seven of eight patients at Moorfields Eye Hospital. The gel’s transparency lets clinicians monitor the retina, offering a potential, less risky alternative to silicone oil. Side effects included inflammation and transient vision loss in some cases but were reversible; larger trials are needed to confirm safety and how long the benefits last.