Biomechanical and optical properties of 2 new hydrophobic platforms for intraocular lenses

To compare the biomechanical and optical properties of 2 new hydrophobic platforms and a series of commercially available foldable intraocular lenses (IOLs).

Center for Education and Research on Macromolecules, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.

Experimental study.

Eleven benchmark foldable IOLs (iPure, Podeye, Acrysof SN60WF, Envista MX60, Sensar AR40e, Tecnis ZCB00, Isert 251, AF-1 YA-60BB, Finevision, Acri.Tec 366D, and Ioflex) were tested by standard analytical methods for biomechanical, rheological, and optical investigations under identical conditions.

With 1 exception, IOLs equilibrated in aqueous medium had a lower glass-transition temperature, higher deformability, lower injection forces, and complete recovery of their initial optical properties after injection. Typical hydrophobic acrylic dry-packaged IOLs required higher injection forces with high residual deformation and lost part of their initial optical quality after injection. Hydrophobic acrylic C-loop, double C-loop, and closed quadripod haptics applied optimum compression forces to the capsular bag with negligible optic axial displacement and tilt compared with plate haptics and poly(methyl methacrylate) haptics.

The combination of the C-loop haptic and the bioadhesive glistening-free material, which absorbs a predetermined amount of water, allowed for a biomechanically stable IOL. The same material used in association with a double C-loop haptic design facilitated the perioperative manipulation and placement of the IOL in a smaller capsular bag without impairing the other biomechanical properties of a single C-loop design.