what is it?
An IOL (intraocular lens) is an articificial lens that becomes a permanent part of the eye after inserted during cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is the only treatment for cataract disease, a condition where the eyes' lens becomes cloudy, and can potentially lead to blindness. According to Life Changing Innovation, recent advancements in IOL technology has offered new innovations and a great potential for better patient results.
how does it work?
ATIOLs (advanced intraocular lenses) are able to correct other conditions in addition to cataracts. For instance, spherical aberration (irregular shape of the spherical lens) and presbyopia (blurred vision)- which are two common eye problems amongst society. They are inserted during the surgery process: for cataract removal, a small opening is made on the side of the cornea where a small probe that emits ultrasound waves is inserted. This causes the natural affected lens to be broken into small pieces which are then liquified and removed by suction. Finally a small plastic lens is inserted in its place (IOL or ATIOL).
how is technology incorporated in it?
Due to continued advancements in medical technology over the past decade, there has been a huge improvement of research and progress in the area of cataract surgery and lens technology. When implanted into the eye, ATIOLs not only have the ability to remove the cataract, but also correct refractive errors such as spherical aberration, presbyopia (mentioned above) and astigamatism. In this way, it eliminates the need for the patient to wear eyeglasses on a daily basis.
how will it contribute to society?
According to WHO, 39 million people in the world are blind, 51% due to cataracts. This startling figure highlights the sheer prevalence of cataract disease around the world. With research being vastly improved and conducted worlwide for the treatment and prevention of cataracts, there is a greater likelihood for those affected by the disease to have a successful recovery. Technological progress over the past decade has enabled what was once a procedure requiring a lengthy hospital stay to a surgery that can be performed in minutes on an outpatient basis. Those who have been able to access advanced cataract surgery have reported a significant increase in overall quality of life. Being able to regain independence, read, drive and see have been some of the most treasured aspects of it. Sight is not to be taken for granted. With continued breakthroughs and advancements in medical technology such as this, the gift of sight can become a reality for many.