Posters

The Scharioth macula lens: postoperative care and its importance for best results

Poster Details

First Author: J. Nekolova CZECH REPUBLIC

Co Author(s):    P. Rozsival   N. Jiraskova                 

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To share our first experiences with a new intraocular implant - the Scharioth Macula Lens (SML), and to explain postoperative care and patient training in detail.

Setting:

Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic

Methods:

Prospective evaluation of 8 patients implanted with SML. They had met the indication criteria for SML implantation. The SML was monocularly implanted in the better-seeing eye. Near and distance visual acuity was tested, patient complaints and the occurrence of possible complications were recorded. Visual function questionnaire have been filled to obtain information about quality of vision. Following the implantation, all patients were advised to perform reading exercises every day. We provided them with instructions and training texts to facilitate the postoperative adaptation. Ophthalmic examinations were carried out 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

Results:

Postoperative recovery was rapid and no complaints of diplopia or glare were recorded. All but one patients implanted with SML acquired good near visual acuity at the recommended reading distance of 15 cm, without compromising distance vision. Patients reported problems with reading speed and distance but daily exercises improved their reading ability. The eye without SML disturbed near vision in 5 patients; this eye had to be covered during reading for a temporary adaptation period of 2-4 weeks postoperatively. One patient converted to wet AMD 3 months after the implantation. After anti-VEGF therapy his vision has stabilized.

Conclusions:

The SML is a new add-on intraocular lens that acts as a magnifier in the eye. It is designed to improve uncorrected near visual acuity in patients with certain types of stabilized maculopathies, especially the dry form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The prospects of reading rehabilitation after SML implantation is promising but patient motivation and daily reading exercises are of utmost importance for achieving the best results.

Financial Disclosure:

One or more of the authors research is funded, fully or partially, by a competing company, One or more of the authors travel has been funded, fully or partially, by a competing company