Benefits and risks

Information for the public

When NICE looked at the evidence, it decided that miniature lens implantation for age-related macular degeneration can improve central vision and quality of life in the short-term and is adequately safe. But the studies were short-term and included only a small number of patients. NICE decided there was not enough evidence to know how well it works or how safe it is in the long-term. The 5 studies that NICE looked at involved a total of 314 patients.

Generally, the studies showed improvements in central vision and quality of life in about two thirds of eyes treated. People reported being able to see 2 to 3 more lines on a sight chart and having better quality of vision, up to 5 years after the procedure. However, the amount of benefit declined over time.

The studies showed that the risks of the procedure included:

problems during the procedure that meant the surgery could not be completed as originally intended, in 5% of patients
removal of the lens system because of problems (in 1% to 2%) or because the patient asked for it to be removed (in 5%)
corneal problems that needed transplantation 1 year after the procedure, in 1% of patients
pressure in the eye that needed treatment in 28% of patients
thickening at the back of the lens in 30% of patients, which was treated successfully with a laser
other damage to the eye up to 60 months after the procedure (details about the outcome were not reported).

If you want to know more about the studies, see the guidance. Ask your health professional to explain anything you don't understand.