Breakthrough in ocular device technology could revolutionise treatment for cataracts

An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is primarily required for people with cataracts, a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, obscuring vision.

They can also be also used to correct refractive errors such as myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness) and presbyopia (when eyes gradually lose the ability to see things clearly up close, as a normal part of aging).

“For the first time, we have developed a resin that can be used to print ocular devices directly,” said lead author Dr Aram Saeed, Associate Professor in Healthcare Technologies at UEA's School of Pharmacy, in a statement.

“While still in the early stages, the ability to 3D print these lenses could significantly enhance eye care for patients by offering unprecedented levels of customisation and design precision, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes.”

Historically, IOLs have been made from a variety of materials, including glass and silicone, although more recently the industry has significantly evolved to predominantly use acrylic materials.

Currently, hydrophilic and hydrophobic acrylic are most used due to their optical clarity, flexibility, biocompatibility and for their stability and safety within the eye.

Current methods of making IOLs use lathing and moulding techniques. The researchers said that while these methods offer the production of well-engineered and high-optical quality devices, they also come with limitations, particularly in terms of design complexity and customisation.

This UEA innovation could enhance the production of ocular devices by creating tailored lenses for each patient’s eye shape and vision needs, provide faster production, and allow for complex designs.

The research team also said that by using their 3D printing technology, the production cost of custom lenses could decrease, and that new materials could be tested and utilised.

The study found that the 3D printed lenses had good optical clarity, could be folded, and implanted into a human capsular bag.

“Our proof-of-concept paper is the first in a series that will detail our developments in this area and set the stage for transforming eye care practices globally,” said Dr Aram Saeed.

“As we continue to publish our findings and share our advancements, we aim to be at the forefront of the industry, working with industrial partners and researchers worldwide to refine and enhance the technology.”

Further, the researchers have began work to ensure the process works accurately on a larger scale and to increase the printing resolution to improve dimensional accuracy. They said that clinical trials could start in the next few years.

The UEA team was awarded a United States patent, and received funding from UEA’s Innovation Development Fund and Proof-Of-Concept grants, the Humane Research Trust, the EPSRC, UEA’s Impact Acceleration Account and the Medical Research Council (MRC).

The study, published in Current Eye Research, can be read in full here.