Absence of reactive membrane associated with failure of lens implantation

Cytological study of an iris-supported intraocular lens implant removed three years after its insertion because of clinical failure revealed the first instance of complete absence of a reactive membrane on its optic portion. The significance of this observation is discussed, and it is concluded that a continuous and optically clear monolayer of cells with a proteinaceous film in the interspaces on the surface of lens is a cytological indicator of good adaptation and clinical success. Absence of a separating reactive membrane is not desirable.