IrreVersible Gel Tansformation of Injectavble Intraocular Lens by Photoinitiator and UV Irradiation in Rabbits

PURPOSE: This study was designed to induce irreVersible gel formation of poloxamer, the thermosensitive polymer hydrogel, by using photoinitiator and UV irradiation, and to verify the biocompatibility and usability of poloxamer as an injectable intraocular lens material through long-term observation in vivo. METHODS: Endocapsular phacoemulsification of lens was performed in rabbits and 25% poloxamer mixed with various concentrations of photoinitiator was injected into the capsular bag through a small capsulorhexis site. Then, the whole eye was irradiated with UV light for 5 minutes. The irreversibility and transparency of the post-operative poloxamer and the effects on the conjunctiva, cornea, iris, vitreous humor and retina were observed. RESULTS: As the results of this experiment using poloxamer 25% and photoinitiator 0.01%, the poloxamer remained transparent in the lens capsule for more than six months after the operation. No inflammatory response or toxicity was observed on the conjunctiva, cornea, iris, vitreous humor or retina. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the possibility of poloxamer as a new material for the injectable intraocular lens. Further study, however, is necessary.

The Development of Injectable Intraocular Lens Using Thermosensitive Polymeric Hydrogel in Vitro and in Vivo

PURPOSE: To evaluate the compatibility of poloxamer hydrogel as a material for the injectable intraocular lens in in vivo and in vitro model. METHODS: We determined the appropriate concentration of poloxamer hydrogel for injection through the examination of transparency and gelling temperature of this material and assess the technique of refilling the lens capsule and the postoperative findings. RESULTS: Poloxamer hydrogel showed excellent transparency compared with balanced salt solution(BSS) in air vinyl and 20% was identified as an appropriate concentration for direct lens refilling material. In vivo study, we injected poloxamer into the capsular bag after performing endocapsular phacoemulsification through the small anterior capsulotomy site. At 3 months follow up, we confirmed the excellent transparency and biocompatibility of poloxamer hydrogel. CONCLUSIONS: Poloxamer hydrogel was identified as an appropriate material for direct lens refilling material.