Protecting the retina during MemoryLens insertion

Abstract Background To determine the light-scattering power of the folded MemoryLens®. Setting Department of Ophthalmology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. Methods The focusing power of 10 unfolded MemoryLenses (Mentor Ophthalmics) was measured using an optical bench. The IOLs were then unfolded in a 37°C distilled water bath and reexamined within 15 seconds of removal from the bath. Resolutions were read after the lenses were dried for 1 hour and cooled to room temperature and again after they were rehydrated and reheated in the water bath. Results In the rolled state, all lenses diffused the illumination of the light source. After the IOLs were unfolded in the water bath at 37°C, they gave readings of acceptable to high resolution. After the lenses were air dried for 1 hour and cooled to room temperature, the resolution of all lenses decreased. However, after the IOLs were rehydrated and reheated for 1 more hour, resolution was similar to that of the original hydrated lenses. Conclusion When folded, at a low temperature, or dehydrated, the MemoryLens may provide protection from the operating microscope by scattering light.