Riboflavin-UV--a crosslinking for fixation of biosynthetic corneal collagen implants.

Purpose: To evaluate riboflavin-UV-A crosslinking as an alternative suture-free fixation method for biosynthetic corneal collagen implants.

Methods: A range of cell-free corneal implants consisting of recombinant human collagen type III were examined. In vitro, the implants were crosslinked with different riboflavin solutions and irradiations.

Functional fabrication of recombinant human collagen-phosphorylcholine hydrogels for regenerative medicine applications.

The implant-host interface is a critical element in guiding tissue or organ regeneration. We previously developed hydrogels comprising interpenetrating networks of recombinant human collagen type III and 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (RHCIII-MPC) as substitutes for the corneal extracellular matrix that promote endogenous regeneration of corneal tissue. To render them functional for clinical application, we have now optimized their composition and thereby enhanced their mechanical properties.

[Opacification of a hydrophilic intraocular lens 4 years after cataract surgery. A biomaterial analysis].

Calcification of hydrophilic intraocular lenses (IOL) is a rare complication. We report about the uneventful replacement of an opacified hydrophilic IOL. The patient presented 4 years after uneventful cataract surgery with a reduction of visual acuity due to calcification of the IOL.

Precision, morphology, and histology of corneal flap cuts using a 200-kHz femtosecond laser.

Purpose: Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) requires precise corneal flap cutting. Especially the creation of thin flaps has recently gained importance for thin-flap LASIK. Currently, there is a trend towards faster femtosecond lasers that can produce flaps in a short period of time.

Repeated transchoroidal implantation and explantation of compound subretinal prostheses: an exploratory study in rabbits.

Purpose: For human trials with retinal prostheses it is mandatory to develop procedures to safely explant and possibly reimplant the devices. This prompted us to investigate in a small exploratory study the safety of repeated transchoroidal implantation and explantation procedures of complex subretinal devices in laboratory animals.

Methods: Repeated transchoroidal surgery was performed in four rabbits.