In ophthalmology, precision is paramount, and every millimetre counts. Even a slight misalignment can significantly affect a person’s vision and quality of life. Now, artificial intelligence (AI) is elevating standards by optimising the design and implantation of AI-designed intraocular lenses (IOLs).
“Improvements in technology, surgical technique and the design of intraocular lenses have led to cataract surgery becoming a very safe and effective procedure,” Michele Lanza, an ophthalmology professor, stated in his paper published in Frontiers medical journal.
This cutting-edge innovation took a leap with Asia’s first implantation of AI-designed IOLs at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital, Bengaluru. IOLs refer to the tiny artificial lens implanted during cataract surgery.
The surgery used advanced lenses like Rayner’s RayOne Galaxy and Galaxy Toric IOLs, which were launched in Barcelona last year and uniquely designed using AI. The spiral-shaped architecture provides a full range of vision with minimal halo and glare.
The Galaxy Toric variant offers enhanced rotational stability, crucial for correcting astigmatism, an eye condition in which irregular cornea or lens shapes cause blurred or distorted vision. Patients benefit from increased spectacle independence and often achieve remarkable visual clarity within 24 hours post-surgery.
“These lenses optimise light distribution, reduce visual disturbances and offer clarity across all distances, all of which directly improve patient satisfaction,” said Dr. Sri Ganesh, chairman and managing director of Nethradhama. “This is not about technological advancements alone, but about better patient outcomes and personalised care,” he added.
Challenges of Integrating AI in Clinical Practice
The introduction of AI-based medical devices in clinical practice has its challenges. Ensuring the technology meets stringent safety and efficacy standards requires rigorous internal validation and extensive clinical trials.
“One of our key challenges was training surgeons to adapt to these lenses. AI may guide design, but the surgical execution still requires precision and familiarity,” said Dr Ganesh.
Patients, too, approached the new technology cautiously. To address concerns, hospitals implemented detailed pre-surgery counselling alongside visual simulation sessions, helping patients better understand the expected outcomes. “When patients can visualise the expected outcomes, it helps ease hesitation and builds trust,” Dr. Ganesh observed.
Beyond AI-designed IOLs, AI is being integrated across multiple stages of ophthalmic care. AI-powered imaging tools are now capable of detecting early signs of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.
Advanced algorithms also help eye care professionals determine the most suitable IOL power, design, and alignment based on each patient’s eye profile. AI also helps control lens positioning and incision placements, improving long-term visual outcomes.
Predictive Analytics and Early Disease Detection
Beyond immediate surgical applications, AI’s predictive analytics are helping in preventative ophthalmology by analysing vast datasets from diagnostics scans to identify individuals at high risk of developing eye diseases. “Machine learning models are helping us predict the likelihood of diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration well before symptoms surface,” Dr Ganesh noted.
Nethradhama has also partnered with Zeiss to develop an AI-powered surgery optimiser app that trains doctors in cataract surgeries. “It significantly reduces the learning curve and the chances of complications, something especially important in a high-volume country like India,” said Dr. Ganesh.
Meanwhile, Bangalore-based ophthalmic innovator firm Remidio has received approval for its AI tools that rapidly detect glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using portable cameras. Designed to function offline, without the need for internet, these tools are ideal for screening in rural and remote areas. With just a tap, doctors can screen three major eye diseases within seconds.
Looking ahead, the next wave of AI integration in ophthalmology promises to include real-time surgical guidance, robotic-assisted procedures, and AI-powered patient education tools. “We’re already seeing how visual simulation tools can help patients understand what their post-surgical vision might look like. It makes the decision-making process more informed,” said Dr. Ganesh.
With AI evolving in healthcare, precision, personalised treatment, and patient confidence are reaching unprecedented heights, ushering in a new era of technology that can transform vision restoration.
