Light Adjustable Lens With Offset Axes for Refractive Error Correction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current intraocular lenses (IOLs) face challenges in achieving optimal uncorrected visual acuity post-cataract surgery due to inaccuracies in IOL power determination, post-operative refractive errors, and limited options for adjusting astigmatism and presbyopia, leading to suboptimal distance and near vision correction.
Innovation Solution
Development of Light Adjustable Lenses (LALs) that can be transformed post-operatively into aspheric optical elements, allowing for precise adjustment of optical properties through a modifying composition that polymerizes in response to external stimuli, enabling correction of spherical and cylindrical refractive errors and induction of targeted asphericity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional IOL power determination methods are used, then the surgical procedure is simple, but the uncorrected visual acuity and refractive outcome are suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating a light-sensitive modifying composition into the IOL during manufacturing, which enables post-operative adjustment of optical properties. The composition is pre-loaded in a dormant state that can be activated by light exposure after implantation, allowing the lens to be customized to the patient's specific refractive needs without requiring complex surgical procedures or multiple lens options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by using light exposure to alter the refractive index and optical power of the IOL. The modifying composition undergoes photochemical changes when exposed to specific wavelengths of light, enabling precise adjustment of the lens's optical parameters (power, astigmatism correction) after implantation, thereby improving visual outcomes without increasing surgical complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-power IOLs are implanted, then the surgical procedure is straightforward, but post-operative refractive errors and astigmatism cannot be corrected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transforming the IOL from a static, fixed-power lens into a dynamic, adjustable optical element. The light-sensitive modifying composition allows the lens properties to be changed after implantation through controlled light exposure, enabling the surgeon to optimize visual outcomes by adjusting power and correcting astigmatism or inducing asphericity based on post-operative refraction measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a light-sensitive modifying composition as an intermediary between the implanted IOL and the desired optical correction. This composition acts as a mediator that can be selectively activated by light exposure to adjust the lens's optical properties, providing a bridge between the initial implantation and the final customized optical outcome without requiring complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
3Reliability
If secondary IOL exchange surgery is performed to correct refractive errors, then optimal vision can be achieved, but surgical risk and patient trauma increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the IOL to be adjusted and optimized after implantation through non-invasive light exposure. The modifying composition within the lens allows it to self-correct refractive errors and adapt to the patient's visual needs without requiring additional surgical interventions, thereby eliminating the risks and trauma associated with secondary IOL exchange procedures while maintaining reliable visual correction.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides a customizable solution for correcting presbyopia and enhancing depth of focus, allowing patients to achieve improved distance and near vision without the need for additional surgical procedures, thereby overcoming limitations of existing IOLs.
Implementation Method 1
a modifying composition dispersed throughout the spherical IOL and capable of polymerization upon exposure to an external stimulus such as heat or light
Data Source
AI summary
A Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) comprises a central region, centered on a central axis, having a position-dependent central optical power, and a peripheral annulus, centered on an annulus axis and surrounding the central region, having a position-dependent peripheral optical power; wherein the central optical power is at least 0.5 diopters different from an average of the peripheral optical power, and the central axis is laterally shifted relative to the annulus axis. A method of adjusting the LAL comprises implanting a LAL; applying a first illumination to the LAL with a first illumination pattern to induce a position-dependent peripheral optical power in at least a peripheral annulus, centered on an annulus axis; determining a central region and a corresponding central axis of the LAL; and applying a second illumination to the LAL with a second illumination pattern to induce a position-dependent central optical power in the central region of the LAL.