THE INCORPORATION OF AMNIOTIC MEMBRANE INTO THE BRAZILIAN PUBLIC HEALTH SYSTEM (SUS) AS A REGENERATIVE THERAPY FOR OCULAR COMPLICATIONS OF DIABETES MELLITUS: CLINICAL ADVANCES, CHALLENGES, AND IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is one of the leading causes of disabling ocular complications, particularly due to ocular surface alterations, persistent epithelial defects, ulcers, and associated retinopathies. This study aimed to analyze the incorporation of the amniotic membrane into the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) as a regenerative therapy for ocular complications related to diabetes mellitus, discussing clinical advances, implementation challenges, and potential impacts on public health. The methodology consisted of a narrative literature review based on scientific articles, clinical guidelines, and studies published in national and international databases addressing regenerative medicine, ophthalmology, and public health. The results indicate that the amniotic membrane presents anti-inflammatory, healing, antiangiogenic, and regenerative properties that contribute to tissue recovery and reduce ocular complications in diabetic patients. However, challenges involving standardization processes, tissue bank logistics, financing, and access expansion still limit its broader incorporation into the public healthcare system. It is concluded that implementing this therapy may reduce morbidity, improve patients’ quality of life, and generate benefits for public healthcare through reduced treatment complexity and lower associated costs.