Intraocular lens implantation in phakic rabbit eyes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomaterials Science
• Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) are used to correct refractive errors in eyes with existing crystalline lenses.
• The potential complications of anterior chamber IOLs, particularly regarding interaction with the crystalline lens, require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of open-loop, one-piece poly(methyl methacrylate) anterior chamber IOLs on the crystalline lens and anterior chamber in phakic rabbit eyes.
• To assess the incidence of lens opacities and anterior chamber inflammation following IOL implantation.

Main Methods:

• Twelve phakic rabbit eyes received IOLs of three different sizes (13.5 mm, 17.5 mm, 18.5 mm).
• Six eyes served as a control group.
• Eyes were monitored for a minimum of four weeks post-implantation.

Main Results:

• All implanted IOLs made contact with the crystalline lens.
• Round subcapsular lens opacities developed in all IOL-implanted eyes within 24 hours, worsening over time.
• Anterior chamber inflammation (1+ to 2+) was observed in 80% of IOL-implanted eyes during the first two weeks.
• The control group showed minimal inflammatory changes, with only one eye developing a linear subcapsular opacity.

Conclusions:

• Direct contact between anterior chamber IOLs and the crystalline lens in phakic eyes leads to a high incidence of subcapsular cataract formation.
• Current IOL technology poses a risk of inducing cataracts when IOL-to-lens touch occurs in phakic eyes.
• Further advancements in IOL design and surgical techniques are needed to mitigate lens-related complications.