Drones Delivering Sight: ICMR’s Breakthrough in Corneal Transplant Logistics

New Delhi: Imagine a future where life-changing medical transplants happen faster than ever before—thanks to drones. That future is closer than you think!

In a groundbreaking study, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has successfully tested the use of drones to transport sensitive ophthalmic bio-materials, including human corneas and amniotic membrane grafts. This innovation could revolutionise eye care by ensuring that donor corneas reach patients in time for successful transplants.

Conducted in collaboration with AIIMS- Delhi and Dr Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, and supported by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the feasibility study evaluated drone-based transport of corneal tissue from peripheral collection centres to tertiary hospitals.

In a remarkable demonstration, a drone carried a donated cornea from Dr Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital in Sonipat to the National Cancer Institute under AIIMS -Jhajjar, and then to AIIMS -Delhi. The entire journey took just 40 minutes—compared to the 2.5 hours required by road transport. Crucially, the drone maintained optimal conditions for specimen integrity, and upon arrival, the cornea was successfully transplanted.

Timely transportation of corneal tissue is critical, as delays can compromise its viability and reduce the chances of a successful transplant. By offering a swift, temperature-controlled alternative to road transport, drones could become game-changers in medical logistics—especially for regions with poor connectivity.

ICMR’s i-DRONE initiative has previously demonstrated the successful use of drones for delivering essential medical supplies in North East India, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and the National Capital Region. Originally developed during the Covid-19 pandemic to transport vaccines, the platform has since expanded to include the delivery of blood products and essential medicines to high-altitude and sub-zero locations.

ICMR Director General Dr Rajiv Bahl highlighted the broader impact of this innovation, stating, “This cornea transport study marks another step forward—enhancing patient access, ensuring timely transplants, and reducing pressure on overburdened tertiary hospitals.”

AIIMS- Delhi Director Dr M Srinivas emphasised the potential for transformation, particularly for those suffering from corneal blindness. “Corneal blindness affects millions in India, and the availability of donor tissue is often a limiting factor. This drone -based transport model could be a game-changer in ensuring equitable access to vision -restoring surgeries, especially in undeserved areas,” he said.

As India continues to strengthen its drone ecosystem, this study marks a crucial step toward building a more resilient healthcare infrastructure. The success of this pilot project opens the door to deploying precision drone logistics for a wide range of critical medical applications, potentially including organ transport and emergency medical deliveries.

(With Inputs from PTI)