Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (Santa Ana, California), received permission from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October to market Healon D in the United States for use as a surgical aid in cataract extraction, IOL implantation, corneal transplant, and glaucoma filtration surgery.1 According to the company, this clear, dispersive ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) protects corneal endothelial cells during cataract surgery.2
Healon D behaves like a gel at rest and a fluid when force is applied. Its low molecular weight assures retention inside the eye (unpublished data presented at the 2008 American Academy of Ophthalmology by Randall J. Olson, MD). The elastic properties of Healon allow the creation and maintenance of working space for the physician.3 During IOL preparation and implantation, the lower viscosity properties of Healon D lubricate the IOL insertion cartridge, open space in the bag, and mitigate the shock of the unfolding lens (unpublished data presented at the 2008 American Academy of Ophthalmology by Randall J. Olson, MD).
Healon D will also be available as dual-pack of ophthalmic viscosurgical systems by the end of 2008, combining Healon D with a cohesive, high-viscosity OVD, such as Healon or Healon GV.
