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fs-Laser induced elasticity changes to improve presbyopic lens accommodation
Tammo Ripken1, Uwe Oberheide, Michael Fromm
1Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V., Hollerithallee 8, 30419 Hannover, Germany. t.ripken@lzh.de
Summary
This study demonstrates that creating microincisions in the crystalline lens can restore its flexibility, potentially treating presbyopia. Laser-induced optical breakdowns effectively increased lens deformation ability by up to 26%.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Laser Surgery
Background:
- Presbyopia, or age-related farsightedness, is linked to crystalline lens stiffening.
- The ciliary muscle and lens capsule remain elastic, suggesting reversibility.
- Restoring lens flexibility may involve creating internal gliding planes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of laser-induced microincisions in enhancing crystalline lens elasticity.
- To explore a potential minimally invasive treatment for presbyopia.
Main Methods:
- Near-infrared femtosecond laser pulses were used to create microincisions via laser-induced optical breakdowns.
- Various cutting patterns were tested.
- Lens elasticity was measured using Fisher's spinning test.
Main Results:
- Microincisions successfully created gliding planes, significantly increasing lens deformation ability.
- Optimized laser parameters resulted in a minimally invasive procedure with no significant side effects.
- Ex vivo tests showed a mean increase in deformation ability of 26% (p < 0.05).
Conclusions:
- Specific internal cutting patterns can enhance crystalline lens deformation ability.
- This technique presents a potential novel treatment for presbyopia.
