Encelto / Revakinagene Taroretcel
Also known as Revakinagene Taroretcel-lwey, NT-501, MacTel Type 2 Implant, Encapsulated Cell Therapy, Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Implant
Bottom Line
Encelto is a surgically placed cell-based eye implant for adults with idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2. It is meant to slow retina cell loss, not quickly sharpen vision.
Encelto (revakinagene taroretcel-lwey) is an allogeneic encapsulated cell-based gene therapy implant. The label lists it for adults with idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2 1.
The implant contains retinal pigment epithelial cells that make recombinant human ciliary neurotrophic factor. This factor is released into the eye to support retinal cells.
In phase 3 trials, cell-based ciliary neurotrophic factor therapy slowed ellipsoid zone area loss in macular telangiectasia type 2 2.
How Encelto Works
Encelto is a tiny capsule with living donor cells inside. The cells are engineered to release recombinant human ciliary neurotrophic factor into the eye 1.
The capsule lets nutrients in and lets the factor out. It also keeps the cells separated from the immune system.
The goal is to slow retinal degeneration in macular telangiectasia type 2, especially photoreceptor loss 2.
Risks and Side Effects
Encelto is an eye surgery and implant treatment, so risks are different from office injections.
- Severe vision loss.
- Eye infection.
- Retinal tear or detachment.
- Vitreous bleeding.
- Implant extrusion or wound problems.
- Cataract progression.
- Delayed dark adaptation.
Cost and Insurance
Encelto is usually billed under medical insurance. Costs can include the implant, operating room, surgeon, anesthesia, imaging, and follow-up visits.
- Prior authorization is expected.
- Coverage may require confirmed idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2.
- Plans may ask for imaging that shows eligible retinal changes.
- Out-of-pocket cost depends on deductible, copay, coinsurance, and assistance programs.
Ask the retina office for a written estimate and coverage review before surgery.
Common Questions About Encelto
Next Steps
- 1Bring macular telangiectasia type 2 records and scans to your Encelto consultation.
- 2Ask whether your imaging shows retina cell loss that Encelto is meant to slow.
- 3Review surgery risks, healing drops, and emergency warning signs.
- 4Confirm insurance authorization and expected out-of-pocket cost before surgery.
- 5Call the surgeon right away for pain, discharge, worsening redness, new floaters, or vision drop.
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