Aniridia-IOL and artificial iris reconstruction

• Published in: Klinische Monatsblatter fur Augenheilkunde Vol. 230; no. 8; p. 786
• Main Authors: Thomas, B C, Rabsilber, T M, Auffarth, G U
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: German
• Published: Germany 01-08-2013
• Subjects: Aniridia - complications; Aniridia - therapy; Eye, Artificial; Humans; Lens Implantation, Intraocular - methods; Lenses, Intraocular; Reconstructive Surgical Procedures - instrumentation; Vision Disorders - etiology; Vision Disorders - rehabilitation
• ISSN: 1439-3999
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1328508

Aniridia is defined as missing iris tissue which can be partial, subtotal or total. Characteristic clinical symptoms include photophobia and decreased visual acuity due to an increased light perception. In addition, disturbing cosmetic problems are prevalent. Modern iris reconstruction implants offer visual and cosmetic rehabilitation. Amongst them are aniridia intraocular lenses (IOL), iris segment implants and the "artificial iris". Different overall and pupil diameters are available for total or partial implants. At the same time aphakia or cataract can be treated when using aniridia IOLs. Intra- and extracapsular fixation is possible. The "artificial iris" can be folded and implanted through small incisions. The aesthetic results are improved significantly due to customised colour selection providing increased patient satisfaction postoperatively.