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Heparin surface modified intraocular lenses implanted in the monkey eye.
P Fagerholm1, H Björklund, A Holmberg
1Department of Ophthalmology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Heparin surface modification of intraocular lenses (IOLs) significantly reduced inflammation and precipitates after cataract surgery. This biocompatible enhancement improves outcomes for patients receiving IOL implants.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Cataract surgery often involves intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.
- Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is a common IOL material.
- Inflammatory responses and precipitates can complicate IOL implantation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the biocompatibility of heparin surface-modified PMMA IOLs.
- To assess the efficacy of heparin modification in reducing post-operative complications.
- To compare heparin-modified IOLs with unmodified controls in a primate model.
Main Methods:
- Implantation of heparin-modified and unmodified PMMA IOLs into anterior and posterior eye chambers of cynomolgus monkeys.
- Clinical observation for inflammatory cells and pigment deposits.
- Assessment of posterior synechias.
- Histopathological examination of ocular tissues.
Main Results:
- Unmodified IOLs showed significant inflammatory cell infiltration and pigment deposits.
- Heparin-modified IOLs remained largely free of precipitates.
- Reduced incidence of posterior synechias in eyes with heparin-modified IOLs.
- Histopathology confirmed reduced inflammatory response with heparin modification.
Conclusions:
- Heparin surface modification enhances the biocompatibility of PMMA IOLs.
- This modification effectively reduces clinical complications following cataract surgery.
- Heparin-coated IOLs represent a promising advancement for improved patient outcomes.