Episode 6 - A Legacy of Cornea Innovation with Dr. Claes Dohlman

On this episode, I had the honour of hosting Dr. Claes Dohlman for a discussion on his legacy in cornea innovation, and how the future generations of ophthalmologists can integrate similar focuses on innovation in their own careers.

Dr. Claes H. Dohlman is considered the father of modern corneal science, and his seminal work has led to the development of the cornea subspecialty.. His research is recognized worldwide and laid the foundations of corneal physiology. He first graduated in medicine from the University of Lund (1957). In 1958, he left to work at the Boston Retina Institute. In 1964, he was given the mission of setting up a care and research service relating to the cornea at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (MEEI).

Combining positions at Harvard Medical School, he was also appointed head of the department of ophthalmology of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. A talented clinician researcher in the field of corneal pathology, Dr. Dohlman is also the inventor of the Boston Keratoprosthesis, the most successful artificial cornea in the world. Dr. Dohlman has received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, and Harvard Medical School has established a research chair in his name.

In 2019, the Universite de Montreal awarded him an honorary doctorate for his decades of commitment and dedication to the field of corneal science. In 2022, he shared the Champalimaud Vision Award for his incredible career in the development of the artificial cornea. Considered the “Nobel Prize of Vision,” the Champalimaud Vision Award, presented by the Portugal-based Champalimaud Foundation, is the highest distinction bestowed in ophthalmology and vision science, carrying one of the largest prizes in scientific research.

His work with the Boston KPro has led to the publication of over 500 research papers in the field. Most importantly however, the Boston KPro has been implanted in over 16,000 patients globally. He is truly a legend in the field of ophthalmology, and it is an honour to have the chance to speak with him today.