A team of researchers at the University of East Anglia have improved a laboratory model that simulates cataract surgery on human donor eyes.

Working in collaboration with Hoya Surgical Optics, the latest human model allows evaluation of artificial intraocular lens (IOL) implants under conditions that better reflect the post-surgical environment.

At present, the only way of treating cataracts is with surgery and more than 30 million operations are expected to be performed annually by 2020. An eye’s cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an IOL during surgery.

Despite positive outcomes, a haziness known as Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) can develop following surgery.

Lead researcher Professor Michael Wormstone from the University’s School of Biological Sciences said: “Our model now mimics the transient nature of inflammation that patients experience after cataract surgery. It is more reflective of clinical events and allows comparative evaluation of different types of IOLs.

“We believe this latest model will allow assessment of current commercial IOLs and will aid the development of next generation lenses.”

The team assessed the influence of IOLs Alcon Acrysof and Hoya Vivinex on PCO management with findings showing cell growth on the posterior capsule was reduced, light-scatter in the central visual axis was found to be lower and growth on the IOL surface was significantly reduced with the Hoya Vivinex relative to the Alcon Acrysof.