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Life on implants
Transactions of the Ophthalmological Societies of the United Kingdom
|January 1, 1983
Summary
Anterior chamber lenses removed after 15 years showed fibrin membranes and pigment cells, not chronic inflammation. Implant movement, not inflammation, likely caused corneal decompensation and pain.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Anterior chamber intraocular lenses (IOLs) are used to correct vision.
- Long-term complications of IOLs require investigation.
Observation:
- Seven Ridley Mark I anterior chamber lenses were explanted after an average of 15 years.
- Indications for removal included corneal endothelial decompensation and painful bullous keratopathy.
Findings:
- Scanning electron microscopy revealed a consistent morphology: a fibrin membrane with adherent iris pigment epithelial cells.
- Red blood cells, fibroblasts, and pigment granules were present.
- Chronic inflammatory cells like giant cells, macrophages, and lymphocytes were notably rare.
Implications:
- The absence of significant chronic inflammation suggests it's not the primary cause of corneal decompensation.
- The findings suggest that mechanical factors, such as implant movement, may be responsible for the observed complications.
- Further research into IOL design and fixation is warranted to minimize long-term complications.