Groundbreaking Intraocular Lens Unveiled for Cataract Surgery Patients

In a groundbreaking development, Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision has introduced the TECNIS Eyhance™ Toric II IOL, a first-of-its-kind intraocular lens designed to enhance vision for patients undergoing cataract surgery. The intraocular lens, a tiny artificial lens replacing the eye's natural lens during cataract surgery, not only ensures clear distance vision but also addresses astigmatism simultaneously.

Patricia Piers, Ph.D., Head of R&D, Ophthalmic Implants at Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision, spearheaded the two-year development of the innovative lens. With approximately 4 million cataract surgeries performed annually in the U.S. and 60,000 globally each day, cataracts, an age-related condition causing cloudiness in the eye's lens, can significantly impact vision.

Piers, having dedicated two decades to researching innovations in ophthalmology, recently faced a personal connection to her work when her mother required cataract surgery. The TECNIS Eyhance™ Toric II IOL, developed by Piers and her team, became the choice for her mother's surgery.

Cataracts, characterized by blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty with glare, are common in individuals over 60. Cataract surgery involves replacing the clouded lens with an intraocular lens permanently. Besides addressing cataracts, these lenses can correct issues like presbyopia, myopia, and astigmatism.

Piers emphasized the importance of encouraging those with worsening vision to consult their eye doctors about cataract surgery. Despite initial reluctance, Piers' mother, after surgery, experienced a remarkable improvement in vision. The TECNIS Eyhance™ Toric II IOL, known for its unique shape enhancing depth of focus and delivering excellent image contrast in low light, proved successful in Piers' mother's case.

For Patricia Piers, the personal connection to her work highlighted the profound impact of innovative medical devices, emphasizing the life-changing results of cataract surgery. As the world observes Healthy Vision Month, Piers shares her experience, encouraging awareness about the transformative potential of intraocular lenses in restoring clear vision and improving lives.