Polymers and devices in ophthalmology

From the economic and social significance the most important applications of polymers in ophthalmology are in contact and intraocular lenses, as well as in viscoelastic polymer solutions used for tissue protection during intraocular surgery. Although needed by fewer patients, scleral implants, silicone oils and perfluorocarbon liquids are important in the surgery to repair retinal detachments. Polymeric devices are also used for the treatment of complicated glaucoma, as artificial corneas and for sustained drug delivery on and into the eye. Some of the implants and devices use in ophthalmology are made with commercial polymers. However, new polymers with specific properties are used to manufacture contact lenses and surgical implants to correct or to restore vision.