Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology
Open Access

Abstract

Ex vivo observation of intraocular lens unfolding

Saori Yaguchi*, Keiichiro Minami and Hiroko Bissen-Miyajima

Objective: To establish an ex vivo porcine eye model for direct observation of Intraocular Lens (IOL) haptic unfolding within the capsular bag under physiologic temperature conditions and to compare unfolding behavior among different hydrophobic acrylic IOL designs.

Methods: Freshly enucleated porcine eyes were used to simulate cataract surgery. A custom aluminum eye holder maintained the ocular surface near body temperature to reproduce physiologic conditions. The iris was removed to allow direct visualization of the capsular bag and equatorial region. Three one-piece hydrophobic acrylic IOLs with different haptic structures were evaluated: CNL0T0 with C-loop and hinged haptics, XY1 SP with C-loop haptics without hinges and PODF GF with double C-loop haptics. Following implantation into the capsular bag, haptic unfolding was observed using vertical and tilted surgical microscope views. Total unfolding time and contact patterns between the haptics and the capsular equator were compared among the IOLs.

Results: Distinct unfolding characteristics were observed among the three IOLs. CNL0T0 gradually unfolded within 136 s with limited capsular contact near the haptic tips. XY1-SP unfolded more slowly, completing at 195 s after manipulation, with partial haptic contact. PODF GF rapidly and simultaneously unfolded within 40 s, showing two capsular contact points associated with its double C-loop design. The present observation system enabled detailed visualization of haptic movement and capsular interaction throughout the unfolding process.

Conclusion: This ex vivo porcine eye model enabled detailed observation of IOL haptic unfolding under conditions approximating the physiologic intraocular environment. Differences in unfolding dynamics and haptic?capsular contact patterns were identified among the evaluated IOLs, suggesting that haptic design may influence early postoperative fixation behavior.

Published Date: 2026-06-16; Received Date: 2026-05-15