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Opacification of artificial intraocular lens: an electron microscopic study
1Department of Pathology, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong. whshek@hkucc.hku.hk
Ultrastructural Pathology
|October 2, 2001
Summary
Electron microscopy revealed calcium hydroxyapatite deposits caused artificial lens opacification. This essential tool aids in understanding the pathogenesis of intraocular lens (IOL) surface deposits.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmic pathology
- Materials science
- Biomaterials analysis
Background:
- Intraocular artificial lenses (IOLs) can undergo opacification affecting visual outcomes.
- Surface irregularities and deposits on explanted IOLs necessitate detailed investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of opacification on explanted intraocular artificial lenses (IOLs).
- To demonstrate the utility of electron microscopy in analyzing IOL surface deposits.
Main Methods:
- Examination of explanted IOLs using light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Elemental analysis using energy-dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis.
- Crystallographic identification using x-ray diffraction (XRD).
Main Results:
- Explanted IOLs exhibited uniform opacification with reticulated and cerebriform surface morphologies.
- TEM revealed electron-dense granular deposits extending into the IOL substance.
- EDX and XRD identified the deposits as calcium hydroxyapatite.
Conclusions:
- Electron microscopy is crucial for characterizing IOL opacification and identifying deposit composition.
- Findings suggest abnormal calcium hydroxyapatite crystal deposition as the cause of IOL opacification.
- This research aids clinicians and manufacturers in exploring the pathogenesis of IOL surface deposits.