Collagel--a new viscoelastic substance for ophthalmic surgery.

A clinical trial comparing the viscoelastic properties of Collagel (human collagen) and Healon (sodium hyaluronate) was performed. Collagel was well tolerated and produced no untoward reaction in the eye. Flare cell measurement was performed during the seven day postoperative period. The initial peak and decline of flare and cell determination showed a similar course in groups treated with Collagel or Healon. A transient increase in intraocular pressure was seen. Endothelial cell loss following surgery was similar in the Collagel and Healon groups. There were no significant differences in intraocular pressure, corneal thickness, endothelial cell density, or visual acuity during the postoperative period. These results suggest that this new viscoelastic substance is comparable to Healon in respect to the parameters described.