Proliferative Anterior Optic Membranes in Hydrophobic Acrylic Intraocular Lenses

PURPOSE: To describe the observed stages of development and management of proliferative anterior optic membranes (AOM) seen on a popularly implanted single-piece hydrophobic intraocular lens (IOL). METHODS: This is an observational series of patients with AOMs managed by three surgeons in different geographical areas in the USA. RESULTS: AOMs may clinically present in one of the four distinct stages. Most patients were visually asymptomatic, but those with decreased visual acuity (Stage 4) required Nd:YAG laser treatment to remove the AOM. These patients had improved visual acuity without recurrence of the AOM during the one-year follow-up period. CONCLUSION: AOMs can present and progress in four distinct stages with variable visual significance. AOMs may be safely and effectively treated with Nd:Yag laser. Occurrence of the membrane may be related to many factors, including high fibronectin content of this IOL. Additional studies are needed to identify incidence, etiology, and best management strategies.