The Tecnis 1-Piece Aspheric IOL

Enhancing not only quantity of vision, but also quality of vision after cataract surgery is now possible with aspheric IOLs. I have found the Tecnis 1-Piece IOL to be a lens with superior aspheric optics, proven hydrophobic acrylic material, and a unique one-piece design.

Optics

Tecnis IOLs have a modified prolate anterior surface that corrects overall spherical aberration of the average eye to near zero. Compared to eyes with spherical IOLs, visual performance testing in eyes with Tecnis lenses demonstrates superior outcomes. Not only is this of benefit in nighttime driving but other low-visibility conditions as well. Image quality, MTF (modulation transfer function), and contrast sensitivity are all enhanced with the Tecnis IOLs. In my personal experience, patients experience excellent quality of vision with this family of IOLs. Many patients have expressed that their vision has never been better.

IOL Material

The most common IOL material selected by cataract surgeons is acrylic. The Tecnis 1-piece IOL is made of a proprietary hydrophobic acrylic. This material has not been associated with the formation of glistenings as have been reported with other acrylic IOLs (e.g. AcrySof). Such glistenings have been shown to cause light scatter¹, loss in contrast sensitivity², and a small but measureable decrease in visual acuity³. Furthermore, there have been no findings of calcification or opacification as have been reported with hydrophilic acrylics. The low chromatic aberration of the Tecnis 1-piece material translates to better optical performance in terms of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and functional vision. The biocompatibility of this lens makes me feel comfortable in using it in all of my patients, even those at greater risk for postoperative inflammation (diabetics, uveitics, patients with pseudoexfoliation, etc.)

Design

The design of the Tecnis 1-Piece IOL is unique. It is characterized by an offset haptic design that vaults the optic posteriorly. This provides constant capsular contact which not only reduces lens epithelial cell migration and PCO but helps to rapidly stabilize IOL position and refraction.

Additionally the 360-degree posterior square edge provides further barrier to LECs and PCO. The frosted edge of the optic minimizes the potential for edge glare.

One of the features of this lens I have truly come to appreciate is its gentle delivery into the eye. Injection of the IOL is co-planar, thus reducing risk of capsular trauma. The reduced optic center thickness for a slim lens profile also facilitates implantation. And finally, the polished haptics reduce friction and enable controlled, gentle unfolding of the lens in capsular bag. All of these features enhance the safety of my surgery. I have never feared or experienced any ocular trauma with this lens. In particular, in eyes with loose zonules, where control and centration are critical, I find this IOL to be ideal.

In summary, I have personally found the Tecnis 1-Piece to be an IOL whose unique design enhances not only visual acuity and quality, but safety of implantation in cataract surgery.

¹Van der Mooren M, Coppens J, Bandhauer M, Van den Berg T. Presented at ARVO 2007.
²Gunenc U, et al. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2001.
³Christiansen G, et al. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2001

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