Bahrain Achieves CAIRS

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A landmark in Bahrain’s medical advancement has been achieved after Dr Haifa Eye Hospital successfully performed the country’s first CAIRS corneal procedure using donor human tissue.

The operation was led by Dr Abdulhameed Hashim, a young Bahraini eye surgeon specialized in corneal diseases, cataract, and vision correction, establishing Bahrain’s first clinical use of CAIRS for keratoconus. National Milestone The hospital described the achievement as unprecedented in the Kingdom, with the procedure executed using natural corneal segments sourced from donor tissue to treat keratoconus.

CAIRS, or Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments, represents a developed extension of traditional plastic corneal rings, offering greater biological compatibility and a lower rate of complications.

The technique works by inserting natural tissue segments into the layers of the cornea to reshape its surface, reduce irregularity and improve visual quality. By avoiding synthetic components, the method provides a more harmonious interface with the corneal tissue.

Clinical Progress

The surgery took around fifteen minutes and was supported by advanced diagnostic imaging, including three-dimensional corneal mapping and precise planning standards that are essential to the success of this type of procedure. These tools reflect the hospital’s surgical readiness and capability in complex corneal operations.

According to Dr Abdulhameed, patients begin to experience gradual improvement in vision during the first days after surgery. He confirmed that early results from the first procedure were excellent and that recovery was free of complications.

Regional Standing

The Bahrain milestone is expected to open the door to new treatment options for individuals with keratoconus, particularly for those who are not suitable candidates for artificial rings or who require solutions with higher visual compatibility.

By performing one of the earliest specialised CAIRS procedures in the Gulf, Bahrain enters the circle of advanced regional centres in corneal surgery.