Femtosecond Laser Liquid Optics Interface as Low Vision Optical Resource

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Low Vision Rehabilitation

Background:

• Cataract surgery generates medical waste, including discarded femtosecond laser interface lenses.
• Low-vision patients face significant financial burdens and limited access to effective visual aids.
• There is a need for sustainable and cost-effective solutions in low vision rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a low-cost optical magnifier repurposed from a femtosecond laser interface lens.
• To assess the device's impact on reading performance and overall visual function in patients with low vision.
• To determine the potential of this repurposed device in reducing healthcare waste and financial strain.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 16 Brazilian low-vision patients with specific visual acuity and field constriction parameters.
• A discarded femtosecond laser interface lens was sterilized and adapted into a magnifying device.
• Patients underwent a 30-day training period, with assessments using the NEI VFQ-25 and MNREAD-P tests.

Main Results:

• Thirteen patients completed the study, demonstrating significant improvements in all reading parameters (MNREAD-P).
• Reading acuity improved from 0.74 to 0.41 logMAR, and critical print size decreased from 0.85 to 0.56 logMAR (p < 0.001).
• Maximum reading speed increased by 35.7% (p < 0.001), and NEI VFQ-25 scores improved significantly (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Repurposing femtosecond laser interface lenses into low-cost magnifiers shows promise for improving visual function in low-vision patients.
• This innovative approach effectively addresses healthcare waste and reduces the financial burden on patients.
• Further research with larger cohorts is recommended to validate this sustainable visual rehabilitation strategy.