Coral Used for Eye Implants By Dalia Acosta* Not gold, not
ceramics or glass are as efficient as sea coral for replacing
damaged human eyes, Cuban scientists tell Tierramérica. The
procedure is already being applied and is known by its initials
HAP-200. HAVANA - Material originating in the sea coral from the
reefs around Cuba, long used for human bone reconstruction, have
proven effective in the creation of eye implants, and is
extracted from the environment without harming the fragile coral
ecosystem. Officially registered as hydroxyapatite porous coral
HAP-200, the product is being used in meeting one of the
scientific challenges that has persisted since the 14th and 15th
centuries when scientists began looking for ways to remedy
traumas to the human eyeball. Spheres of precious metal,
including gold, ceramics or glass have been used as implants to
replace damaged eyes, but none has demonstrated the potential of
coral for preventing biological rejection and ensuring a
natural-looking eye. Any of the patient