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Intracorneal inlay improves near vision in presbyopic patients
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NEW YORK — An intracorneal inlay has been shown in European studies to improve near vision in patients with presbyopia. It functions on the same principle as a camera aperture, blocking unfocused light with a centrally located hole, which increases depth of focus.
"With the AcuFocus inlay, by increasing the depth of field, we can decrease this blur circle that can improve near vision," Jason E. Stahl, MD, said as he presented study results here at OSN New York 2009.
The AcuFocus corneal inlay has been implanted in 343 eyes worldwide. In an ongoing European study, 70 patients have received the inlay, and 57 have completed 1-year follow-up. Results so far show a mean uncorrected distance acuity of 20/20 and uncorrected near acuity of J1, Dr. Stahl said.
"There's no significant loss of distance vision," he said. Ongoing U.S. study results "mirror what we're seeing internationally."
The inlay is 5 µm to 10 µm thick, with a 3.8 mm diameter and a 1.6 mm aperture. It is made of a lightweight biocompatible polyvinylidene fluoride material, with a flexible cup shape to match corneal curvature.
"We use a femtosecond laser to make a pocket, and within the pocket, implant the inlay," Dr. Stahl said. Cornea shape is maintained, and there is minimal tissue disruption, leading to a rapid recovery.
Tiny randomly placed holes in the inlay decrease nighttime visual issues, Dr. Stahl said. Nutrients flow through the holes to keep the cornea healthy.
The inlay is virtually undetectable, even in blue eyes. "If you're looking directly at the patient, you can't really see it," he said.
OSN New York 2010 will be held November 19-21, 2010 at the Sheraton New York Hotel & Towers in New York City. Learn more at OSNNY.com.