Season 3: Episode 6: Osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis

In this episode of Tumor Minutes, we dive into one of the most unconventional procedures in medicine: the osteo-odonto-keratoprosthesis, more commonly known as “tooth in eye” surgery.

Used as a last-resort treatment for severe corneal blindness, this multi-stage procedure involves removing a patient’s tooth, embedding a lens inside it, temporarily implanting it in the cheek to develop a blood supply, and eventually placing it into the eye to restore vision.

Through a mix of humor and clear explanations, this episode explores how and why this surgery works, who it’s for, and what it reveals about the creativity of modern medicine. While it may sound unbelievable, this procedure has helped restore functional vision to patients who had no other options.

As always, Tumor Minutes keeps things informative, accessible, and just a little sarcastic—because sometimes the weirdest science is the most impactful.