Wavefront-Guided Phakic IOL Customization for Positioning Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phakic intraocular lenses (IOLs) face challenges in achieving optimal visual acuity due to unpredictable positioning and rotation after implantation, particularly in patients with severe visual issues like keratoconus, limiting their effectiveness compared to LASIK and traditional contact lenses.
Innovation Solution
Implementing wavefront technology for precise measurement and customization of phakic IOLs by using optical aberrometers to measure aberrations, creating customized correction profiles, and either machining or modifying the IOL in situ with a femtosecond laser to align and correct aberrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If wavefront measurement technology is applied to phakic IOL customization, then manufacturing precision and visual acuity are improved, but device complexity and measurement difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fiducial markers as intermediary elements that facilitate the measurement and tracking of IOL position. These markers serve as mediators between the complex wavefront measurement system and the IOL, enabling precise positioning without requiring direct complex measurement of the IOL itself. The fiducial markers simplify the measurement process by providing reference points that can be easily tracked.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy or model of the patient's eye optics through wavefront measurement, which is then used to design and customize the IOL. This digital replica allows for precise calculation of the required optical corrections without needing to physically manipulate the actual eye during the design phase, thereby improving manufacturing precision while managing system complexity.
2Reliability
If wavefront measurement is used for phakic IOL planning, then visual acuity outcomes are improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs wavefront measurements and IOL design calculations before the actual implantation surgery. This preliminary action allows for thorough optimization of the IOL design based on precise measurements taken when the eye is in its natural state, ensuring the highest possible visual acuity outcomes. The measurements and designs are finalized beforehand, reducing the need for high-precision measurements during the surgical procedure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates post-implantation wavefront measurements to evaluate the actual performance of the customized IOL. This feedback mechanism allows for verification that the IOL is functioning as intended and provides data for potential adjustments or refinements, thereby ensuring reliable visual acuity outcomes through iterative optimization.
3Reliability
If customized IOL design is implemented, then visual acuity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent customizes IOLs by modifying specific optical parameters such as surface curvature, asphericity, and zone patterns based on the patient's wavefront aberration profile. Rather than creating entirely unique IOL designs for each patient, the customization involves adjusting key parameters within a standardized IOL platform, which maintains ease of manufacture while achieving improved visual acuity through personalized optical corrections.
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
Enhances visual acuity by ensuring precise positioning and correction of aberrations, potentially achieving 20/20 vision in a higher percentage of patients compared to current methods.
Implementation Method 1
specialized optical instruments (aberrometers) that use wavefront sensors for measuring on-axis (central vision) aberrations of an eye's optical properties
Implementation Method 2
optical instruments (aberrometers) that use wavefront sensors for measuring on-axis (central vision) aberrations
Implementation Method 3
modifying the implanted IOL with a femtosecond laser
Implementation Method 4
locally change in-situ the Index of Refraction of the IOL material
Data Source
AI summary
Method steps for correcting vision in an eye that uses a customized phakic IOL composing: (1) measuring one or more wavefront aberrations of the eye: (2) designing a wavefront-customized correction profile for an Intraocular Lens (IOL); (3) creating a customized IOL with the customized correction profile; and (4) implanting the customized IOL in the eye. Alternatively, an uncorrected IOL is first implanted and aligned in the eye, followed by in-situ scanning a femtosecond laser spot across the implanted IOL to locally change the Index of Refraction of the IOL material and create an in-situ customized IOL.