Slit-lamp assisted TORic Marker (STORM): A novel corneal axis marker

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Optics

Background:

• Accurate alignment of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) is essential for achieving spectacle-free distance vision.
• Despite advancements in biometry, unpredictable outcomes persist due to errors in preoperative axis marking for toric IOLs.
• Existing toric markers have improved accuracy but postoperative refractive surprises due to faulty marking remain a concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce STORM, a novel slit lamp-based toric marker designed for precise and reliable corneal axis marking.
• To provide a hands-free, no-touch, and slit-lamp assisted method for marking the astigmatic axis.
• To address the need for a stable, economical, and accurate marking solution in ophthalmic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel toric marker integrated with slit lamp illumination.
• Utilizing a hands-free, no-touch technique for marking the cornea.
• Modification of traditional marking devices for enhanced ease of use and accuracy.

Main Results:

• The STORM toric marker facilitates accurate and easy marking of the astigmatic axis preoperatively.
• The no-touch, slit-lamp assisted approach minimizes errors and patient/surgeon stress during marking.
• The innovation offers a stable, economical, and reliable solution for toric IOL alignment.

Conclusions:

• The STORM toric marker provides a significant improvement in the accuracy and reliability of preoperative axis marking for toric IOLs.
• This innovation has the potential to reduce postoperative refractive surprises and enhance surgical outcomes.
• The user-friendly design ensures comfort and accuracy for both patient and surgeon.