The evolution of intraocular lenses and their methods of fixation: A historical and modern perspective

Purpose. To analyze the scientific literature and conduct a critical review, which allows us to elucidate the historical and contemporary aspects of intraocular lenses (IOLs) development and evolution of implantation techniques over the past seven decades. Material and methods. PubMed, Scopus and eLIBRARY databases for the period from 1949 up to 2023 were used for article selection, and the following keywords were used in the mesh: IOL implantation, anterior chamber IOL, IOL with pupil fixation, scleral fixation, IOL iris suture (and the same phrases in Russian). Results. Flange techniques for iris suture seems to be extremely promising, due to speed and effectiveness of this method. However, the issues of strength and possible toxicity of thermally modified polypropylene require more indepth research. It is necessary to find correct indications for each type of iris suturing, based on safety and efficiency indicators. Conclusion. This literature review presents historical aspects, that shows the way of IOL’s evolution, deep retrospective analyzes of complications of each type of fixation, that led to the development of new types of IOL and surgical techniques. This process continues today. Key words: IOL implantation, IOL fixation, anterolateral IOL, posterolateral IOL, IOL with pupillary fixation, scleral IOL fixation, IOL with pupillary fixation, IOL stitching to the iris