Trial of a disc lens for intercapsular cataract extraction

The preliminary results are presented of a prospective trial of a new 'disc' intraocular lens. (Pharmacia Model CD801A). Forty-four lenses were implanted into the capsular bag using an intercapsular cataract extraction technique. The lens is a one-piece all-polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) lens with a 6 mm biconvex optic. The optic sits within a 9 mm diameter flexible PMMA ring. Two haptic stalks link this flexible haptic ring to the optic. The lens was assessed for its ease of insertion, its rate of decentration, the incidence of posterior capsular opacity and its effects on pupillary function. Results of the trial at three months follow-up are presented. They show that the lens is easy to insert into the capsular bag even through small pupils. It is very easy to dial, placing no stress on the bag when doing so. The incidence of decentration of 1 mm or greater was 5%, and the incidence of posterior capsular fibrosis at three months was 2%. As predicted, the lens sits well back in the eye, clear of the pupil.