Steinert sees cataract surgery innovation on the horizon in Kelman lecture

[caption id="attachment_6022" align="alignnone" width="750"] Roger F Steinert MD was recognized for his service as an educator and innovator with the Kelman Award. David Chang MD, left, presented the award on AAO’s behalf.[/caption]       A dual-optic fluid-drive accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) that could finally yield complete spectacle independence, and a device for changing IOL power and multifocality in vivo after implantation are cataract surgery innovations on the horizon, Roger F Steinert MD told the 2016 AAO Annual Meeting in Chicago, USA.   The LensGen accommodating IOL consists of a base with a fixed optic into which a fluid-filled lens is inserted. Slight ciliary contractions are amplified to deform the fluid optic for a full range of continuous accommodation similar to the crystalline lens, said Dr Steinert, of the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, University of California-Irvine, USA. The lens components can be inserted through a standard small incision, and the fixed posterior optic provides a platform for astigmatism correction, he added.   The Perfect Lens Perfector I is a device that can change the refractive index of IOLs in the eye, creating a phase-wrapped lens that can correct IOL power, or add or remove multifocality, Dr Steinert said. The device works by altering the hydrophilicity of acrylic lenses, and can be used with hydrophobic or hydrophilic IOLs.   The unexpected FDA approval of the Raindrop near vision corneal inlay will also revolutionize presbyopia correction for emmetropes, Dr Steinert said. Implanted in the centre of the cornea of the non-dominant eye, the hydrogel device promotes remodelling of the corneal epithelium, creating a profocal cornea that enhances near vision in the centre and transitions smoothly to intermediate and distance focus at the perimetry. In trials the implant has produced 20/32 or better vison at all distances in 96 per cent of patients, and is removable, Dr Steinert said.   The Kelman Lecture is delivered by an individual who has made significant contributions to the advancement of cataract surgery through education, innovation or scientific study. The AAO recognized Dr Steinert for his long-time commitment to cataract surgery education in academia and professional societies, as well as his work with industry on advanced devices and instruments.    

Tags: AAO 2016