Accommodating Add-On Optical Implant: Novel Concept and Preliminary Studies
Purpose
To present a novel concept of a sulcus fixated optical element to restore natural accommodation.
Methods
The optical element is positioned in the ciliary sulcus of eyes following in-the-bag implantation of conventional IOL targeted to emmetropia. The ciliary muscle is utilized to change the anterior curvature of the optical system and thus provide the additional optical power needed for near vision. Ex-vivo laboratory studies in animal and human eyes were done to study feasibility of implantation of the accommodative element and determine the desired shape and configuration of the device.
Results
Experimental studies were done on post-mortem eyes of pigs, rabbits and human eyes. Prototypes of the optical system were implanted in pseudophakic eyes through a relatively small incision (3.5 mm) and positioned in the sulcus in direct contact with the ciliary muscle. UBM studies helped determine lens dimension and design.
Conclusion
Preliminary studies suggest that the concept of an add-on sulcus fixated optical system to restore natural accommodation is feasible and may have the potential for clinical use.