New technological lenses offer solution to cataract

By Jeyhun Aliyev

ANKARA (AA) - The newly developed trifocal intraocular lenses offer people solution for both cataracts and eye defects, according to a Netherlands-based biotechnology firm on Tuesday.

Ozge Altunbas Gokteki̇n, CEO of VSY Biotechnology, told Anadolu Agency that new technological trifocal intraocular lenses can also fix the eyesight defects of short-sighted and long-sighted people, as well as those suffering from presbyopia.

"Eyesight is enhanced through technological developments," Gokteki̇n said.

The "smart lenses" were developed at the firm's research and development center in Istanbul with the approval of Turkey's Industry and Technology Ministry.

She also said that with the social awareness of new solutions, cataracts will be treated and the need for eyeglasses will be eliminated.

Gokteki̇n noted that the trifocal intraocular lenses were developed through accelerated research and development, as well as production development activities.

“Cataracts are characterized by a loss of clear vision after the natural crystalline lens behind the pupil loses its transparency and becomes opaque," Gokteki̇n said.

The prevailing reason for cataracts -- also described as "cloudy vision" -- is old age, however, certain conditions such as eye trauma, diabetes, high eye pressure, and uveitis may also cause the disease, she noted.

Gokteki̇n also said that the solution for cataracts is to remove the natural lens by surgical methods and replace it with an intraocular lens.

"Now, trifocal intraocular lenses can enable patients to see at all distances and can also treat astigmatism," she said.

Gokteki̇n added that the product will also contribute to the economy.

According to the company, VSY Biotechnology serves more than 60 countries around the globe, while its product range includes intraocular lenses, viscoelastic, cartridge and injector systems, as well as high molecular weight hyaluronic acid intra-articular injections used in orthopedics.