DR. HENAL JAVERI

DR.HARSHA BHATTACHARJEE, DR. SUKLENGMUNG BURAGOHAIN

Abstract

Purpose: To report the laboratory analysis of three specimens of opaque hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) explanted in delayed postoperative period for visual understanding.

Methods: Explanted IOLs were examined under light microscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dense Spectroscopy(EDS)

Results: The IOLs were in situ for a duration of 11.3 ± 4.04 years and were explanted to due to late postoperative opacification of the IOL and significant visual deterioration. SEM detected surface cracks in the first specimen, typical agglomerated surface, pores and accumulation of crystals with surface deposit of nano-particles on the second specimen and uneven surface erosion in the third specimen. EDS detected mainly sodium (Na) and chloride (Cl) spikes.

Conclusion: SEM features of the IOL optics and absence of calcium and phosphate spikes in EDS were suggestive of hydrolytic biodegradation of hydrophobic acrylic IOL polymer in vivo.