Intraocular lenses in aviators: a review of the U.S. Army experience

Intraocular lenses are known to be efficacious in the correction of aphakia, but their suitability and durability in Army aviators has not been previously evaluated. Eight experienced pilots (preoperative flight time average: 7,660 hours), who had intraocular lens implants following removal of cataractus lenses, were studied. All had returned to flight duty, seven as pilots, with a total of 2,700 hours postoperative flight time accumulated. All were very pleased with the surgery and with the effectiveness of their lenses. Minor problems included: halos around lights in low illumination (5/8 pilots), erythropsia (2/8), and difficulties with a fixed focal length (2/8). Two aviators reported significant visual problems: complications associated with a platinum loop iris supported intraocular lens, and discomfort and glare stemming from traumatic corneal scarring. A detailed ophthalmological examination revealed abnormalities (5/8 pilots), but none which would be directly attributed to flying. Modern intraocular lenses appear to be an acceptable means of correcting aphakia in Army aviators.