The Philippines has marked a global first after successfully performing the world’s first fully robot-assisted cataract surgery on a human patient.
The procedure was carried out at the Asian Eye Institute using the Jasper Platform, a robotic system developed by ForSight Robotics. It was led by Dr. Alexey Rapoport, with Dr. Robert Edward T. Ang serving as principal investigator.
Dr. Ang said the breakthrough could improve the accuracy of eye surgeries, reduce differences in outcomes, and make cataract treatment more accessible to patients.
The milestone also highlights the growing role of the Asian Eye Institute in global eye research. Over the past 25 years, the institute has contributed to developments in cataract surgery, LASIK, glaucoma treatment, and retinal disease care.
Medical Director Dr. Juan Ma. Pablo Nañagas said the institute aims to bring advanced technologies to Filipino patients through clinical research, adding that research is key to improving patient care.
The institute is currently involved in several studies, including new intraocular lenses, laser treatments for presbyopia, drug delivery systems for glaucoma, and treatments for macular degeneration.
Patients interested in joining clinical trials may contact the Asian Eye Institute for more information.
