PURPOSE To determine the spectral transmittance of artificial intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed for various species (dog, cat, chinchilla, eagle, tiger) and compare them to the spectral properties of the biological… Click to show full abstract
PURPOSE To determine the spectral transmittance of artificial intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed for various species (dog, cat, chinchilla, eagle, tiger) and compare them to the spectral properties of the biological lenses of these species. METHODS Twenty-seven IOLs were scanned with a spectrophotometer fitted with an integrating sphere. RESULTS All IOLs transmitted long wavelengths well before cutting off sharply at short wavelengths, with insignificant transmission below ca. 340 nm. In comparison with the IOLs, the biological lenses of the cat, dog, and probably the chinchilla transmitted significantly more short wavelengths. The spectral properties of the biological lenses of eagles and tigers, while uncertain, may be a closer match to the IOLs made for these species. CONCLUSION It is not known if there are any visual or behavioral consequences for animals caused by a mismatch between the spectral properties of their biological lenses and IOLs. However, following IOL implantation there might be a change in the perceived hue of objects due to the removal of UV wavelengths which form a normal part of the visible spectrum for these species and/or a decrease in sensitivity.
               
Click one of the above tabs to view related content.