Evaluation of a Clover-looped-haptics IOL for Sutured Scleral Fixation in a Porcine Eye Model

This study utilizes a porcine eye model to evaluate the performance of a novel clover-shaped triangular-symmetrical looped-haptics intraocular lens (IOL), made of hydrophobic crosslinked polyisobutylene (xPIB) material specifically designed for sutured scleral fixation.

Twenty fresh postmortem porcine eyes were randomized into two groups: Group A underwent three-point sutured scleral fixation using the Hoffman Pocket technique, and Group B received intracapsular implantation using commercial injectors. Postoperative assessment included swept-source optical coherence tomography and Miyake-Apple imaging to evaluate IOL tilt, decentration, and effective lens position (ELP). The data from both groups were statistically analyzed and compared to evaluate the suitability of this clover-shaped IOL as a specialized IOL for sutured scleral fixation.

The IOL implantation procedures were successfully completed in both groups of porcine eyes. No significant differences in tilt or decentration were demonstrated between the two groups, but the ELP of scleral-fixated IOLs was significantly closer to the iris plane (P < .05), consistent with surgical expectations. Miyake-Apple imaging confirmed the absence of haptic breakage and secure suture retention within the haptic eyelets.

The combination of looped-haptic design with fixation eyelets and the novel xPIB material enables the clover-shaped triangular-symmetrical IOL to perform effectively in sutured scleral fixation, highlighting its potential for use in aphakic patients without capsular supports. The porcine eye model is suitable for evaluation of IOL sutured scleral fixation.