[Comparison of shape recovery ratios in various IOL haptics]

We examined shape recovery ratios of various IOL haptics (polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, polymethylmethacrylate) under conditions resembling clinical use. Experiments were carried out using Ascon lens-holding forceps and compression tests in cylindrical holders. The experimental results indicated that PVDF haptics were superior to PP and 3-piece PMMA haptics. This would suggest the need for surgeons to establish safer implantation techniques in the future by taking into consideration the shape recovery characteristics of the haptics involved. At the same time, further research and development of haptic materials is required by manufacturers.