Implantable miniature telescope may benefit low-vision patients

NEW YORK — A biocompatible miniature telescope implanted in the bag can create a wider visual field, high magnification, good contrast and resolution for low-vision patients, according to one surgeon.

Stephen S. Lane, MD, spoke at the Eleventh Annual Ocular Surgery News New York Symposium on Cataract, Glaucoma, Retina and Refractive Surgery on his experience with this lens. He said that most low-vision aids, such as spectacles and handheld lenses, create a limited field of view and are inconvenient, unattractive and cumbersome.

Dr. Lane reported on a phase 1 evaluation of the Implantable Miniaturized Telescope (IMT, VisionCare Ltd.). Fifteen patients were included. The IMT was implanted in 14 patients; one patient had a ruptured capsule and vitreous loss. Fourteen patients were available for 6-month exam, and 12 patients were available for 12-month exam. (One patient died, and one was not available.)

In best corrected distance visual acuity at 6 months, seven patients gained 2 or more lines from baseline, three gained 1 line and four gained less than 1 complete line change from baseline. No patients lost one or more lines. At 12 months, seven patients gained two or more lines, four gained 1 line and one gained less than 1 complete line change. None lost 1 or more lines.

For best corrected near visual acuity at 6 and 12 months, 6 patients gained 2 or more lines, 2 gained 1 line and 2 gained less than 1 complete line change. Two patients lost 1 line, and two lost 2 or more lines. At 12 months, six gained 2 or more lines, one gained 1 line and four had less than 1 complete line change. One patient lost 1 line, and none lost 2 or more lines.