VaMa – developing a modular implant for eye surgery

MedTech

Generation: 2026.

Founders: Zoran Vatavuk, Goran Marić

Business model: B2B2C

VaMa is developing a modular implant for eye surgery consisting of an artificial capsule that serves as a platform for receiving an artificial eye lens, a stent for controlled reduction of intraocular pressure, and an artificial iris. Using a well-known implantable material (polydimethylsiloxane) for permanent implantation in the human body, we have developed an implant that addresses the most common complication in the most common surgical procedure in medicine – posterior capsule rupture, which is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure and iris defects. By combining different combinations of modules, VaMa adapts to the specific characteristics of individual cases affected by this pathology.

Problem

Our solution addresses the lack of a commercially available artificial eye lens capsule. We are targeting all eye surgeons around the world who encounter this pathology.

Solution

The VaMa modular ophthalmic implant is patented with the EPO/WIPO. It has been produced as a valid prototype and, as an artificial eye lens capsule, has been implanted in the human body in five patients with excellent preliminary results, with a follow-up period now spanning 2.5 years. The effect is stable and persistent, and no side effects or adverse reactions have been recorded. A scientific article has been published in the journal Biomedicines (IF 3.9, Q1). This concept has been recognized by the American authors Berrocal et al. as one of the solutions shaping the future of addressing this eye pathology, which has been cited and described in the US journal Current Opinion. We are currently developing an optimized design, and after it is “locked in,” we will begin a large multicenter clinical study as part of the MDR regulatory process and CE certification, with the goal of achieving commercialization as soon as possible. We have three letters of intent (LOI) from Clinical Hospital Centers and ophthalmology clinics in Ljubljana (Slovenia), Sarajevo (BiH), and Liège (Belgium).