Iris-claw lens in phakic eyes to correct hyperopia: preliminary study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Refractive Error Correction

Background:

• High hyperopia presents a significant challenge for vision correction.
• Phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) offer a potential solution for refractive errors.
• Iris-fixated anterior chamber IOLs are an option for specific patient groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of convex, iris-fixated, anterior chamber IOLs in phakic eyes.
• To evaluate the refractive outcomes and potential complications associated with this IOL type.
• To determine the long-term results of this surgical approach for high hyperopia.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study involving two centers: Robert Koch Hospital (Germany) and Dr. Daljit Singh Eye Hospital (India).
• Implantation of convex, iris-fixated, anterior chamber IOLs in 69 phakic eyes (2 at Center A, 67 at Center B).
• Follow-up durations varied: 91 months for Center A, mean 78 months (range 12-120 months) for Center B.

Main Results:

• Successful refractive correction of high hyperopia was achieved in most cases.
• At Center B, corneas remained clear, and no iritis or glaucoma was observed in the majority of eyes.
• One patient experienced complications including glaucoma and corneal degeneration, attributed to inadequate postoperative care due to late follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Convex iris-claw lens implantation in the anterior chamber of phakic eyes is a successful refractive procedure for high hyperopia.
• The clinical risks associated with this IOL implantation appear manageable.
• Mandatory lifelong monitoring using endothelial microscopy is essential to manage potential long-term complications.