[Ultrasound microscopy findings of artificial lenses]

Acoustic microscopy permits a native, nondestructive and artefact-free analysis of the surface of intraocular lenses with regard to manufacturing defects, biologic cellular and membranaceous layers, and signs of degradation. Furthermore, it enables structures below the surface to be evaluated, so that inclusions, pores, microcracks and zones of deformation can be detected. In addition to performance of a one-dimensional, relative intensity profile of the surface and the corresponding pseudo-3D image, the properties of the materials inside the intraocular lens can be characterized by computerized analysis of the reflected ultrasound energy.