Eyeworld

52 February 2015 by Michelle Dalton EyeWorld Contributing Writer EW REFRACTIVE An update on the Light Adjustable Lens In development for more than a decade, a novel lens is inching its way toward U.S. approval A n IOL that promises to consistently deliver a desired refractive result by allowing surgeons to manipulate its refractive power after implantation offers enormous potential. Even with today's most advanced IOL calcu- lations and formulas, surgeons still encounter refractive surprises. One lens might eliminate those surprises, experts say. The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL, Calhoun Vision, Pasadena, Calif.) was introduced commercially in Europe years ago, and is currently available in Mexico. Calhoun Vision has started the third and final phase of FDA studies in the U.S. The lens differs from those currently available commercially because it "delivers unprecedented control of the refractive outcome. There is no competition to the accu- racy of this technology," said Jason J. Jones, MD, in practice at Jones Eye Clinic, Sioux City, Iowa; Sioux Falls, S.D.; and Sheldon, Iowa. Only the LAL allows surgeons to correct residual refractive errors "noninvasively after the lens has reached its final position. Using profiled amounts of UV light the IOL can be adjusted according to patients' expectations and needs," said Fritz H. Hengerer, MD, PhD, senior head physician and deputy director, Department of Ophthalmology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany. Simply explained, the LAL is implanted in the bag, without any substantial changes to operative technique. Postoperatively, patients wear protective glasses for about 2–3 weeks, returning to the surgeon's office twice during that time period for UV light-controlled adjustments to the IOL and a final "lock-in" of refractive power. The LAL is the first product William F. Wiley, MD, medical director, Cleveland Eye Clinic, Ohio, said will allow surgeons to meet the The Light Adjustable Lens under the slit lamp Source: Jason J. Jones, MD Device focus The Light Adjustable Lens at 1 week postop, during the second adjustment Source: James Lehmann, MD

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