Using catheter needles to deliver an intraocular lens for intrascleral fixation

A new method for delivering intraocular lens (IOL) haptics through sclerotomies for intrascleral fixation using catheter needles was evaluated in pig eyes. A bent catheter needle was used to penetrate the surgical corneal wound from the presumed sclerotomy. Extraocularly, the leading haptic of the IOL was fixated between the external tube and the internal needle of the catheter needle. The fixation was strong enough to support the IOL and to extract the leading haptic through the sclerotomy site. The trailing haptic was fixated using another catheter needle extraocularly and was subsequently delivered through another sclerotomy site. Guiding with a needle was the only intraocular manipulation when delivering the trailing haptic and catheter needle through the sclerotomy. This new method is easy and safe and does not require special devices compared with other methods. Clinical evaluation in human eyes should be performed.

Dr. Akimoto is a consultant to Kowa Co. Ltd. A patent application on the modified catheter needle is planned. No other author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.