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Optical and morphological characterization of a 3D printed intraocular lens
Author(s) -
DEBELLEMANIERE G,
FLORES M,
MONTARD M,
DELBOSC B,
SALEH M
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
acta ophthalmologica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.534
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 1755-3768
pISSN - 1755-375X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2014.1771.x
Subject(s) - lens (geology) , 3d printing , intraocular lens , dioptre , computer science , personalization , optics , materials science , optometry , medicine , physics , visual acuity , composite material , world wide web
Purpose Three‐dimensional printing (or “additive manufacturing”) is a technology which allows to create a three dimensional object by building it layer by successive layer. It is especially interesting for objects that are produced in little series and that require a high degree of customization, as it allows economies of scale and potentially unlimited design possibilities. Those characteristics are particularly relevant to intraocular lenses used in cataract surgery, in a personalized medicine approach. Despite technical barriers, additive manufacturing of good quality lenses without post‐processing is now achievable. We aimed to determine if the historical Ridley lens was able to be reproduced with current 3D lens printing technology. Methods We realized a digital reproduction of the Ridley’s IOL using a 3D modeling program. Lenses were then printed. No post‐processing was used. Photographs and electron microscopy images of the printed lens were obtained. Dimensional measurements, weight and dioptric power were determined. The data was compared with the data available in the literature concerning the original Ridley's intraocular lens. Results The morphological study showed a shape similar to the original lens. Transparency was satisfying. A good optical surface regularity was obtained. The lens power was 1.31 diopters different than expected, due to inaccuracies in curved surfaces printing, however general properties of a lens were achevied. Conclusion This is the first attempt to produce an intraocular lens using a 3D printer. Despite major technological barriers, 3D printing of optical lenses could have important implications in tomorrow's ophthalmic surgery by allowing potentially unlimited optical and morphological lens designs.