Quantification of glistenings in intraocular lenses using Scheimpflug photography

We describe a method of quantifying glistenings in intraocular lenses (IOLs) using Scheimpflug photography. Glistenings in hydrophilic acrylic IOLs implanted over a 10-year period were quantified subjectively at the slitlamp and by digital image analysis of Scheimpflug photographs; the latter involved analysis of glistenings in the anterior and posterior IOL surfaces. Glistenings were seen in all IOLs, with more in those with a longer postoperative period. This association was stronger with Scheimpflug quantification (r_S = 0.70; P<.000) than with subjective quantification (r_S = 0.32; P = .11). Anterior and posterior IOL glistenings developed similarly over time. Scheimpflug photography had a higher degree of objectivity than subjective staging of IOL glistenings and also provided information about the axial localization of the glistenings. This investigation indicated that IOL glistenings continued to increase for up to 10 years.