Effect of folding instruments on silicone intraocular lenses

The Faulkner holding and folding forceps, the Fine folder, and the Prodigy inserter (PRO-1A) were evaluated to assess their effects on silicone intraocular lenses (IOLS) after the lenses were folded. The IOLs were evaluated before folding and at two and 24 hours after folding for haptic dimension, optic quality, and surface quality. None of the instruments caused a clinically important effect on the IOLs 24 hours after folding. The cross-sectional area required for IOL insertion was calculated for each folder. The Prodigy required the smallest cross-sectional area and the Faulkner the largest when folding a 24 diopter lens. We also describe a protocol that can be used to evaluate new IOL folders.