[Three-dimensional ultrasound biomicroscopic examinations for haptic differentiation of potentially accommodative intraocular lenses].

PURPOSE: The principal ability of potentially accommodative IOLs is based on an axial shift of the IOL optics induced by the ciliary body action in interaction with a reversible change in haptic angulation. The aim of this study was to investigate the accommodative performance of this new IOL generation.

METHOD: The authors have designed a test device to study IOL performance experimentally. These results were extrapolated to the in vivo situation in patients with accommodative implants.

RESULTS

The 3D high-resolution presentation of the anterior segment of the eye allows a separation of the IOL haptic elements. In vitro and in the selected in vivo cases a change in haptic angulation <10 degrees in combination with a maximal IOL shift of 0.5 mm was found.

CONCLUSIONS

The simulation model used in combination with 3D ultrasound biomicroscopy provides information about the potential of accommodative IOL designs. Conclusions corresponding to changes in haptic angulation during accommodation can be drawn and applied to the in vivo situation.