GorganEye Artificial Lens Capsule

Background

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the United States, with an estimated 3.7-4 million surgeries per year. Typical intraocular lens (IOL) placement leads to the formation of scar tissue, making IOL exchange difficult if a patient’s vision changes. There is also a risk of posterior capsular rupture during cataract surgery, which can leave inadequate support for implantation of current single piece IOLs. Posterior capsular ruptures present difficulties for patients requiring a premium lens for refractive errors which lack three piece sulcus fixated lens solutions. There remains a need for a solution that can address the challenges associated with lens implantation in eyes with ruptured or missing natural lens capsules, and for cataract patients requiring lens exchanges.

Technology

Researchers at Stony Brook University have developed a new artificial lens capsule designed for use during cataract surgery or in cases of aphakia. The folded lens capsule is inserted into the eye and expanded to hold an IOL, taking the place of a ruptured or missing posterior capsule of the eye. The capsule’s design has leaflets which are supported by the anterior capsular rim, and eyelets which permit scleral fixation in cases where there is inadequate capsular support. The lens capsule addresses challenges associated with IOL placement in eyes with damaged or missing natural lens capsules, while also permitting simple swapping of IOLs in the event that a patient’s vision changes. The replacement capsule supports premium lens types, making it a versatile solution to enhance visual outcomes for cataract patients with different refractive errors.