3007: Artificial iris with strategic cut-outs
Managing a patient with aniridia requires a highly customized approach to anterior segment reconstruction, specifically when shaping and placing an artificial prosthetic iris implant. Depending on the remaining anatomical structures, the prosthetic can be positioned either within the ciliary sulcus or directly inside the capsular bag. For the sulcus fixation approach demonstrated in this case, a trephine is used to create strategic peripheral cut-outs, which prevent the implant from compressing the ciliary processes and obstructing the aqueous flow. Conversely, when the device is placed inside a secure capsular bag, it is simply trephined to match the internal dimensions of the bag and left uniformly round without any scalloped edges. Watch the clip to study the delicate manipulation, trephination technique, and insertion mechanics required to safely deploy this therapeutic implant. What has been your clinical experience with long-term intraocular pressure control and centration when comparing sulcus versus capsular bag placement for these artificial iris devices? Please comment your insights below.
