2 Advances in intraocular lens development

While cataracts are relatively easily treated by removal of the existing lens and its replacement with a synthetic lens, problems remain. These lenses are subject to a high incidence of secondary complications including the formation of secondary cataracts in as many as 40% of patients. Furthermore, the majority of existing intraocular lenses are unable to accommodate for vision. However, there have been a number of improvements to the materials and the lens design which have been demonstrated to and which have the potential to decrease the incidence of secondary cataracts. Additionally, new developments in the field of lens design have led to lenses that show some degree of accommodation. These are discussed in the current chapter. The chapter also highlights the results of research that may lead to truly accommodating systems in the future.