Surgical placement of an optical prosthetic device for end-stage macular degeneration: the implantable miniature telescope.

OBJECTIVE To describe the surgical procedure for placement of an implantable telescope prosthesis for end-stage age-related macular degeneration. METHODS As part of a phase 2/3 clinical trial for patients with bilateral, irreversible age-related macular degeneration, the optimal procedure for monocular placement of the telescope prosthesis was determined. RESULTS Because of the unique configuration of the telescope prosthesis, proper wound construction, anterior chamber management, and device insertion after phacoemulsification are critical for successful surgery. CONCLUSION A unique surgical technique ensures appropriate placement of the telescope prosthesis, while reducing surgical trauma to the corneal endothelium.