EXTENDED REPORT In vitro and in vivo study of lens refilling with poloxamer hydrogel

Aim: To evaluate the compatibility of poloxamer hydrogel as a material for an injectable intraocular lens, in vivo and in vitro. Methods: The appropriate concentration of poloxamer hydrogel was determined for injection by examining the transparency and gelling temperature of this material, assessing the lens capsule refilling technique, and studying the postoperative findings in a rabbit model. Results: Poloxamer hydrogel showed excellent transparency and 25% was identified as an appropriate concentration for the lens refilling material. The authors developed a technique for injecting the material in vivo and obtained excellent short term results. Conclusions: Poloxamer hydrogel was identified as an appropriate material for direct lens refilling, and the developed injection technique produced excellent short term results.