Biomaterials for refractive correction： corneal onlays and inlays

• Published in: Science China. Chemistry 2014-04, Vol.57 (4), p.501-509
• Main Authors: Wu, Jian, Funderburgh, James L., Wagner, William R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomedical materials; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Chemistry/Food Science; Contact lenses; Error correction; Laser applications; Reviews; Surgical implants; Tissue engineering; 合成聚合物; 屈光不正; 屈光矫正; 显微结构; 生物材料; 细胞外基质; 角膜; 隐形眼镜
• ISSN: 1674-7291; 1869-1870
• DOI: 10.1007/s11426-014-5083-1

Corneal inlays and onlays represent a means of providing patients with permanent refractive error correction. As an alternative to conventional spectacles and contact lens, these techniques are less invasive compared with laser-based refractive surgery and are reversible. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the anatomic microstructure of the human cornea, indicating the primary physiological function for each component. Next, the wide range of biomaterials used as corneal inlays and onlays are considered, from synthetic polymers to biological components derived from the extracellular matrix. The limitations and challenges associated with the most common materials are discussed as is the need to improve their properties to achieve long-term, complication-free intraocular implantation. Finally, the prospect of applying tissue engineering strategies is noted for its potential to generate autologous corneal tissue that could be implanted as the optimal inlay or onlay materials.