Accommodating IOL prevents leakage of injected material during lens filling

Paris—A foldable silicone IOL is effective in preventing leakage of injected material. This new lens-refilling procedure seems to be promising for providing ocular accommodation, said Okihiro Nishi, MD.

Dr. Nishi, from the Nishi Eye Hospital, Osaka, Japan, demonstrated implantation of this IOL in pig and rabbit eyes at the annual meeting of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.

The IOL is similar in shape to that of a conventional IOL, but the optic has small narrow grooves over the entire circumference. The edge of the circular capsulorhexis, which is 3 to 3.5 mm, fits tightly into these grooves, and effectively prevents leakage of injected material. The lens is 13 mm long, 2 mm thick, and has a 5.5-mm optic.

Dr. Nishi demonstrated the successful implantation and functioning of the IOL, which is based on creating a circular capsulorhexis of the correct size.

"Refilling of the lens is a technically feasible procedure," Dr. Nishi said. "Accommodation may occur by the forward movement of the lens and thickening of the lens."

"The development of fibrosis can be avoided in this system; however, posterior capsule opacification is a concern. Postoperative in vivo power change of the lens may be possible using an adjustable IOL," Dr Nishi concluded.