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[Postoperative deposits on a second-generation silicone lens].
I Tsinopoulos1, A Manthos, P Kalpadakis
1Augenklinik der Aristoteles-Universität, Thessaloniki, Greece.
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|February 27, 2004
Summary
Deposits were observed on a second-generation silicone intraocular lens (IOL), a first for this material. Analysis revealed crystalline calcium and carbon precipitates, suggesting metabolic issues, not the IOL itself, cause these visual disturbances.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Previous studies documented hydroxyapatite deposits on hydrophilic and hydrophobic intraocular lenses (IOLs).
- This study investigates deposits on a second-generation silicone IOL for the first time.
Observation:
- A silicone IOL (Allergan, SI-40) extracted due to gradual visual loss was examined.
- Scanning electron microscopy revealed crystalline precipitations on the anterior surface.
- X-ray analysis identified calcium and carbon, but no phosphorus.
Findings:
- The deposits on the silicone IOL were crystalline, containing calcium and carbon.
- Phosphorus was notably absent in the detected precipitates.
Implications:
- Metabolic disorders in the aqueous humor, such as those in diabetes mellitus, may cause IOL surface deposits.
- Lens production quality, rather than the IOL material, could be a primary factor in deposit formation.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for improving long-term visual outcomes after cataract surgery.