Uveal and capsular biocompatibility of a single-piece, sharp-edged hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens with collagen (Collamer): 1-year results

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze uveal and capsular biocompatibility 1 year following implantation of a sharp-edged, hydrophilic, collagen-containing posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL).

Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Vienna Medical School, Vienna, Austria.

Method: In a prospective study, a Collamer CC4204BF IOL was implanted in 30 eyes of patients with senile cataract. A standardized surgical technique and postoperative regimen were applied. To assess uveal biocompatibility, cellular inflammation on the anterior IOL surface was evaluated with a specular microscope. Capsular biocompatibility was registered semiquantitatively with a biomicroscope, based on an assessment of fibrosis on the anterior and posterior capsules. Tyndall values were measured with the Kowa FC-1000 laser flare-cell meter. Decentration of the lens was also registered.

Results: One year after implantation, the values of flare and cell count in the anterior chamber were lower than preoperatively. Round and spindle-shaped, epithelioid, and foreign-body giant cells were not found on the anterior surface of the IOL. The capsulorhexis rim was moderately fibrosed in 56.6% of cases. Fibrosis of the capsule over the optic was also moderate in 36.6%. The central portion of the posterior capsule was devoid of fibrosis in 43.3% and mildly fibrosed in 50%. Three lenses revealed outgrowth of lens epithelial cells to the anterior surface of the IOL. A neodymium:YAG capsulotomy had to be performed in 1 case. All lenses were well centered in the capsular bag 1 year after implantation.

Conclusions: The absence of inflammatory cells on the anterior surface of the IOL indicates the high uveal biocompatibility of the lens. In terms of capsular biocompatibility, the results were satisfactory.