Intraocular lens with photosensitizer and method for modifying the refractive index of the lens

摘要

An intraocular lens comprising an optical, polymeric material with predetermine regions that have been irradiated with light from a laser to form refractive structures. The refractive structures are characterized by a change in refractive index within the irradiated regions of the lens with little or no scattering loss. To facilitate the formation of the refractive structures the optical, polymeric material is prepared from at least one monomer having a photofunctional group, the monomer having a two-photon cross- section of at least 10 GM. The invention is also directed to a method for modifying the refractive index of an intraocular lens prior to the surgical insertion of the lens in a human eye. The described irradiation process is used in a manufacturing environment to create refractive structures in the intraocular lens. The method includes irradiating a solvated intraocular lens at predetermined regions with light from a laser to form refractive structures.