Polycarbonate intraocular lenses.

Bisphenol-A polycarbonate has been investigated as an improved polymer for ocular implants, especially for intraocular lenses (IOLs). Polycarbonate properties afford special opportunities for development of tougher, stronger, one-piece IOLs. Autoclave or gamma sterilizability and a higher refractive index may provide additional IOL advantages over polymethylmethacrylate. Implant studies in rabbits have shown polycarbonate IOLs to be well tolerated in the anterior chamber for 2.5 years. Polycarbonate appears promising for new IOLs and other ocular implant applications.