Study Detail

Cornea Transportation via Drones: An Observational exploratory study

Background:
The i-DRONE initiative, launched by ICMR during the COVID-19 pandemic, has successfully enabled drone-based delivery of vaccines, blood components, diagnostic samples, and medicines to hard-to-reach and high-altitude regions. Building on that foundation, this study is the first-of-its-kind in India focusing on transporting ocular tissue (corneas and AMGs) via drones to support real-time transplant requirements.

 

Researchers/Research Agencies involved

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-Hq), New Delhi; Dr. R. P. Centre, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi; NCI campus (Jhajjar), All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi and Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital (SCEH), New Delhi

Significance

• Addresses the critical time sensitivity involved in corneal transplant logistics.
• Enhances geographical equity in access to corneal tissues for vision-restoring surgeries.
• Demonstrates the value of inter-institutional and inter-ministerial collaboration in solving complex healthcare delivery challenges.
• Lays the groundwork for expanding drone-based transport of other surgical and biological materials across India.

 

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