Lens epithelial growth on the anterior surface of hydrogel IOLs. An in vivo study

Descriptive study designed to investigate the cellular event occurring on the anterior surface of a hydrogel intraocular lens (IOL), Hydroview model H60M over 3 years following implantation.

Slitlamp photos and specular microscopy were performed on 25 subjects at specified intervals following implantation in order to document the morphology and extent of the cellular reaction on the anterior surface of the IOLs. A laser flare meter was used to evaluate the post-op inflammation.

In 13 of the 25 cases proliferation of lens epithelial cells (LECs) was detected on the anterior surface at various levels of severity.