Revolutionizing Corneal Transplants in Quebec

the Maisonneuve-rosemont Hospital in Quebec has recently acquired a state-of-the-art laser, offering patients requiring corneal transplants access to more precise and effective procedures at no cost. This advancement promises to considerably improve success rates and patient outcomes in a region renowned for its medical innovation.

This acquisition positions the hospital as a leader in ophthalmological care,providing cutting-edge treatment options for complex corneal conditions. The new laser technology allows surgeons to perform corneal cuts with unparalleled accuracy, following a meticulously pre-planned surgical path.

It allows the population to be treated more safely.

Dr. Johanna Choremis, Head of Corneal Division, University of Montreal

Unmatched Precision for Complex Cases

The Victus femtosecond laser enhances the precision and success rate of intricate transplants, especially for conditions like keratoconus, a disease characterized by the thinning and deformation of the cornea. Beyond improving existing procedures, the laser also unlocks the potential for novel corneal surgeries previously deemed impractical.

Dr. Tanguy boutin, corneologist and manager of the laser integration project, emphasizes the hospital’s commitment to innovation, stating, It proves that we are able to innovate and we are not lagging behind.

A Patient’s Viewpoint: Restoring Vision and Hope

Fadi Srour, the first patient to undergo a laser-assisted cornea transplant at Maisonneuve-Rosemont, experienced a significant decline in vision due to keratoconus. Traditional methods, including glasses, offered no advancement, leaving a corneal transplant as his only option.

On February 24th, Srour underwent the groundbreaking procedure at the Angus operating center. Despite initial apprehension, he placed his trust in the medical team.

I was afraid of being the first case, but I trusted.

Fadi Srour,first patient

The surgery,performed by Dr. Johanna Choremis, was a resounding success. Srour reported noticeable improvements in his vision daily and was able to return to work and driving within weeks.

Years in the Making: Securing the Future of Eye Care

Acquiring the advanced laser technology was a multi-year endeavor, requiring significant financial investment and strategic planning.The $900,000 cost was jointly funded by the CIUSSS of Est-de-l’île-de-Montréal and the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital foundation. The team also had to consider annual maintenance costs and staff training.

Dr. Boutin highlighted the persistence required to bring this vision to reality: We’ve been talking about it for years. We tried several times to have subsidies or private donations to have the laser. by developing this new operating room, you could have a space to put it.

Looking ahead, the Maisonneuve-Rosemont team aims to collaborate with other institutions, including the University of Montreal Hospital (CHUM), to share this valuable resource and further advance the field of ophthalmology.