IntraOcular Lens
IntraOcular Lens - IOL
A lens implanted in the eye. Typically used to replace the natural (crystaline) lens of the eye due to deterioration or refractive error. The standard IOL is a plastic lens with small side struts that hold it in place. Newer models range in material from acryllcs to silicone and, due to their flexibility, can be inserted through a smaller incision in the cornea.
IOLs are inserted via a short and relatively painless outpatient procedure. They were originally used exclusively as lens replacements for cataract placements, but have recently been increasingly popular as a treatment for refractive error (specifically for patients with extreme Myopia who are not eligible for LASIK eye surgery). Such treatments (using 'Phakic Intraocular Lenses) began in 1999 and have now expanded to treat Myopia.
Types of Intraocular Lens
Types of Phakic Intraocular Lens
(Note: Phakic means that the lens is implanted into the eye without removing the natural lens.)
Bifocal
Facilitate distance vision in one area of the vision field, and near vision in another.
Multifocal
Facilitate multiple different focal lengths for short, medium, and long distance vision.
Risks
A recent FDA study of the Artisan lens (Ophtec USA) revealed the following risks:
- a yearly loss of 1.8% of endothelial cells
- 0.6% risk of retina detachment
- 0.6% risk of cataract (other studies show 0.5%-1.0%)
- 0.4% risk of corneal swelling
