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Acrylic lenses becoming more popular, but PMMA still has a role for pediatric patients
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BARCELONA — In the past 7 or 8 years, there has been a shift toward the use of foldable hydrophobic acrylic IOLs in pediatric cataract patients; however, PMMA lenses still play a role, according to a speaker here.
"Hydrophobic acrylic lenses require small incisions, have high capsule biocompatibility, produce less ovalization of the bag, less inflammation and they are perceived to produce less [posterior capsule opacification]," Chris Lloyd, MD, said at a joint symposium of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons and the World Congress of Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.
However, in a study of 61 children implanted with either PMMA or AcrySof lenses, although a higher rate of intraoperative complications was reported with PMMA rigid lenses, no significant difference was found in PCO formation.
"The PCO in the PMMA lenses occurred a bit more quickly, but if you followed the AcrySof lens children long enough, they got significant and severe PCO," he said.
According to Dr. Lloyd, the PMMA lens still has a role for secondary sulcus fixation, particularly when the capsular rim is too thin to support the lens optic. They are also less expensive and, therefore, economical for use in developing countries.