Synthesis of linkages for cataract surgery: storage, folding, and delivery of replacement intraocular lenses (IOLs)

Surgical techniques for extraction of a cataract and implantation of a replacement intraocular lens (IOL) into the eye have improved dramatically in recent years. An important advance has been the development of foldable IOLs, which can be inserted into the eye through incisions approximately 50% smaller than those required for rigid IOLs. This paper reports on another evolutionary step in cataract surgery: the design of linkages for holding, folding, and delivering soft, foldable IOLs during cataract surgery. One solution is a compliant mechanism designed with the LINCAGES© software package.