I-Lens® K9 IOLs FAQ
What are the benefits of Heparin Surface Modification (HSM)?
- Heparin surface-modification (HSM) reduces postoperative inflammatory responses in the early postoperative period.
- HSM posterior intraocular lenses result in less cellular response observed one year after extracapsular cataract extraction.
- HSM results in reduced foreign-body reaction as measured by specular micrography and slit-lamp examination, especially in the early postoperative period.
- Patients who are diabetic or have glaucoma can definitely benefit from an HSM acrylic IOL compared to a non-HSM PMMA IOL, according to a multi-center study.
- HSM coating appears to be a valuable tool to decrease implant-associated bacterial endophthalmitis.
** Statements taken from industry articles on file.What is Heparin Surface Modification (HSM)?
The latest development in veterinary intraocular lens (IOL) technology is the heparin surface modification (HSM) of lenses by I-MED. This is an important advance in veterinary ophthalmic technology—and another step into the future of implant surgery by I-MED.
Heparin is a carbohydrate molecule endogenous to invertebrates and mammals. It is not recognized as a foreign substance by the body, and does not appear to elicit immunologic reactions. In addition, heparin surface modification has been tested on various implantable devices for the purpose of reducing bacterial adhesion and thereby reducing the risk of infection. Referenced articles in scientific literature that elaborate on the benefits of heparin coating are available upon request. The patented heparin surface modification of treated intraocular lenses provides a strong molecular attachment between the heparin and the polymer lens surface.
Only sterile, medical grade heparin, which is fully tested in accordance with US Pharmacopoeia specifications, is used in this process. To demonstrate the safety of this new process, a battery of in vitro/in vivo tests has been performed according to ISO 10993 Tripartite guidelines, all with good results.
i-pen™ FAQ
How many measurements do I need to take?
There is no required number of measurements.
However, the more measurements you take, the more accurate the average will likely be. Therefore, we recommend taking the full nine (9) measurements.How hard do I have to hit the cornea?
The i-pen® uses waveform analysis and does not function mechanically like older tonometers (e.g. with a needle) and therefore a light tap with good contact will be sufficient. Is the activation position important?
Yes, the i-pen® uses gravity-based technology and so the position of the tonometer when you activate it, using the main button prior to taking measurements, must be the same as the position of the intended readings. Will pigmentation distrort my measurements?
No, pigmentation should have no effect on the i-pen®'s measurements. What are normal IOP measurements in animals?
Measurements for handheld tonometers do vary slightly between brands but not significantly. The following table taken from the Merck Vet Manual should give you a good idea of expected IOP measurements. "Animals are usually presented with high-pressure glaucoma because intraocular pressure (IOP) >30-50 mm Hg results in clinical signs of buphthalmia, mydriasis, corneal edema, episcleral venous congestion, and variable ocular pain. The underlying glaucoma may be either open or narrow-closed angle, and either acute or chronic." - Merck Vet Manual
Species IOP (mm Hg) Mean ± SD Dog 18.8 ± 5.5 Cat 19.2 ± 5.9 Rabbit 19.7 ± 5.6 Horse 17.9 ± 2.1 Cow 23.3 ± 6.9 Llama/alpacas 16.6 ± 3.6 Monkey (ketamine) 13.6 ± 3.7 Alligator 23.7 ± 2.1 Ferret 22.8 ± 5.5 Rat 17.3 ± 5.3 Hawks 20.6 ± 3.4 Owl 10.8 ± 3.6 Why am I having difficulty getting a measurement?
If you cannot get consistent readings from the i-pen™ you may find the following tips useful.
1. Make sure the i-pen™ is correctly calibrated.
Although it comes pre-calibrated and requires less calibration than other handheld tonometers, it can still become uncalibrated if it is knocked, jostled, jarred, dropped, etc. You will find the calibration instructions on page 13 of the manual.2. Take the measurements in the same spot.
The i-pen™calculates the IOP using waveform analysis. To achieve a reading it needs to two identical waveforms, therefore try to keep taking the measurements as close together as possible.3. Take the measurements at a slow, steady pace.
The i-pen™ performs a quick calculation after each contact. Taking measurements to close together will result in no reading. Try taking measurements at a slow, steady pace (i.e. 1 Mississippi, 2 Mississippi . . .)4. Take the measurements perpendicularly (at 90°) to the cornea.
We also highly recommend watching the 5 minute i-pen™ video. If you are still experiencing problems after taking these steps do not hesitate to contact us.
I-Lid 'n Lash® Hygiene Vet FAQ
How does I-Lid 'n Lash® Hygiene Vet prevent tear stains?
I-Lid 'n Lash® Hygiene Vet contains an anti-bacterial agent that reduces the bio-burden found on the fur surrounding the eyes and will prevent tear stains from forming on new fur. Tear stains are the result of a chemical reaction between the contents of the tears and the bacteria found surrounding the eye. Together they form a chemical called Ptyrosporin or Red Yeast. Using I-Lid 'n Lash® Hygiene Vet daily reduces the formation of this chemical and will prevent new stains from forming.
Interestingly, tearing eyes are often a sign of KCS (or dry eye syndrome). A reduction in the quality of the tear film can lead to and overproduction of tears resulting in leaking eyes. It is often useful to treat the root cause of the problem by administering artificial tears like I-Drop® .
Will I-Lid 'n Lash Hygiene Vet remove tear stains?
Yes, to some degree. I-Lid 'n Lash® Hygiene Vet will lighten tear stains on fur but will not completely remove them. I-Lid 'n Lash® Hygiene Vet is a cleanser, but does not contain a 'bleach' that can be harmful to the animals if it enters the eye. However if used once daily, it will prevent tear stains from appearing on new fur as it grows out. You should see results in approximately two (2) weeks after the first application.