A 38-year-old man in Italy has regained his sight after undergoing a groundbreaking experimental gene therapy—the first of its kind in the world. The patient, diagnosed with Usher syndrome type 1b, a rare genetic disorder causing congenital deafness and progressive vision loss, had been nearly blind, seeing “through a keyhole” before surgery.
The procedure was performed in July 2024 at the University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" ophthalmology clinic in southern Italy. Doctors now say that the therapy has successfully restored the patient’s near and distant vision, even in low-light conditions.
Throughout history, diseases and disorders like this one have been a subject of both fear and fascination. However, thanks to the progressive nature of the medical field, we're always getting closer to understanding the complex mysteries of disease and medicine. With new solutions and historic challenges along the way, we've been able to develop medicines and treatments that have been instrumental in saving countless lives. Technology has also had an important role to play in many of these medical advances.
Take a look back at the inventions that revolutionized the medical field in this gallery. Click on for more.