Multiple component intraocular lens: first human implantation

To report the first clinical implantation of a foldable, spherical multiple component intraocular lens (MC-IOL). Previous studies and publications described a polymethylmethacrylate version of this lens, which required a 7-mm incision for its implantation. The foldable version of this lens system can be inserted through a < 3-mm incision.

Following routine cataract surgery, the base lens component of the MC-IOL was inserted with a 2.8-mm injector into the capsular bag of a 62-year-old woman. The front lens assembly of the spherical MC-IOL was injected into the anterior chamber. The haptics of the front lens were then inserted into the capture bridges of the base lens completing the lens assembly procedure. The remainder of the cataract procedure was performed routinely.

Six-week follow-up showed 20/20 corrected vision with a refraction of +1.00 +0.25 x 106 degrees. The MC-IOL was centrally located in the capsule, and good clearance was noted between the lens and iris.

The foldable version of the MC-IOL can be inserted through a conventional small cataract incision (< 3 mm). In this patient, the lens was well tolerated and generated the expected 20/20 visual acuity. The first MC-IOL prototype had only spherical components and the surgery was performed to demonstrate the feasibility of doing such an operation, assembling and disassembling the optical elements of the MC-IOL in the eye. The surgeon was able to perform these manipulations with a short learning curve and standard cataract instrumentation.