Opacification of Hydrophilic Acrylic Intraocular Lenses

Overview

The authors present results of retrospective study of 10 cases of Aqua-Sense hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) explantation performed during the calendar year 2005 at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic. The preoperative visual functions, perioperative findings and postoperative results were evaluated.

The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) before explantation was surprisingly good, even in cases with severe opacification of the lens. There were no serious perioperative complications; in 9 cases, the stable capsular bag enabled us to implant the new IOL in the bag or in the sulcus. In one case, the suction of the secondary cataract was done. In one eye, the zonular dehiscence developed, and the new IOL was placed into the anterior chamber (angle supported AC IOL). We did not see any postoperative complications. The BCVA improved in 3 eyes, in 7 eyes the BCVA remained the same. All patients were satisfied with the postoperative results.

Histopathological examinations of the explanted IOLs showed multiple tiny calcium granules concentrated in continuous narrow band closely beneath the anterior surface of the optic part of the IOL.

The postoperative calcification of some currently available hydrophilic acrylic IOLs is one of the common reasons for IOL explantation/exchange. Sophisticated surgical techniques greatly improved the postoperative results.

Key words:
opacification, hydrophilic acrylate, explantation