Lens Epithelial Cell Migration between Posterior Capsule and Intraocular Lens with Variously Finished Posterior Optic Edge and Two Haptic Angulations

PURPOSE: To compare lens epithelial cell migration between intraocular lens (IOL) optics and the posterior capsule of IOLs with various edges and haptic angulations. METHODS: Experimental acrylic IOLs with 3 types of finishing (none, polishing, tumbling and polishing) and 2 types of haptic angulation (10 and 15 degrees ) as well as 3 (AcrySof MA30BA, Sensar AR40, CeeOn 911) clinically implanted IOLs were inserted in rabbit eyes. Scanning electron-microscopic examination of IOLs was carried out before surgery and histological examination of lens capsules 3 weeks after surgery. The grading of lens epithelial cell migration under the IOL was made by scoring. RESULTS: Scanning electron-microscopic examination showed that the optic edge sharpness decreased according to the finishing in experimental IOLs. The AcrySof and CeeOn lenses had sharp edges and the Sensar had a rounded edge. The migration score was highest in the IOL with a rounded edge whereas it was lowest in IOLs with a sharp edge and large haptic angulation. There was no significant difference between the scores of clinically implanted IOLs. CONCLUSION: Sharpness of the optic edge may be a critical factor for the prevention of posterior capsule opacification and more important than haptic angulation in acrylic IOLs.