Lens epithelial cell migration between posterior capsule and intraocular lens with variously finished posterior optic edge and two haptic angulations.

PURPOSE

To compare lens epithelial cell migration between intraocular lens (IOL) optics and the posterior capsule of IOLs with various edges and haptic angulations.

METHODS

Experimental acrylic IOLs with 3 types of finishing (none, polishing, tumbling and polishing) and 2 types of haptic angulation (10 and 15 degrees ) as well as 3 (AcrySof MA30BA, Sensar AR40, CeeOn 911) clinically implanted IOLs were inserted in rabbit eyes. Scanning electron-microscopic examination of IOLs was carried out before surgery and histological examination of lens capsules 3 weeks after surgery. The grading of lens epithelial cell migration under the IOL was made by scoring.

RESULTS

Scanning electron-microscopic examination showed that the optic edge sharpness decreased according to the finishing in experimental IOLs. The AcrySof and CeeOn lenses had sharp edges and the Sensar had a rounded edge. The migration score was highest in the IOL with a rounded edge whereas it was lowest in IOLs with a sharp edge and large haptic angulation. There was no significant difference between the scores of clinically implanted IOLs.

CONCLUSION

Sharpness of the optic edge may be a critical factor for the prevention of posterior capsule opacification and more important than haptic angulation in acrylic IOLs.