2.5.6 Ophthalmologic Applications Introduction

Biomaterials in ophthalmic applications have a long and very successful history. Among the first ophthalmic biomaterials, intraocular lenses have been restoring sight to patients for more than 50 years. This chapter will describe innovations in contact lens materials including the advent of silicone hydrogel materials and their growing use. Changes in intraocular lenses and the potential for the development of a truly accommodating intraocular lens will be discussed. The emerging use of biomaterials in the treatment of glaucoma is a newer application of biomaterials in the eye. The use of biomaterials to create artificial retinas and the potential for the application of these novel devices to restore sight to patients who no longer have or who never had vision will be described.