We compared the results of implanting an implantable contact lens (ICL) and an iris claw lens (Artisan® lens) in patients' wtih myopia and sought to determine a basis for choosing between the two lenses.

ICLs were implanted in 32 eyes of 18 patients, and Artisan® lenses were implanted in 40 eyes of 23 patients. Uncorrected visual acuity, refraction, endothelial cell density, intraocular pressure, and slit lamp measurements were taken for 12 months.

All the patients had improved UCVA from the day after the operation until the 12th month. The mean spherical equivalent refraction at postoperative month 12 was -0.78±0.54D in the ICL group and -0.78±0.59D in the Artisan® lens group. In the same period, endothelial cell density loss was 5.34% in the ICL group but was not significant in the Artisan® lens group. There were no significant complications in either group.

Both ICL and Artisan® lens implantation resulted in immediate visual improvement and stability of vision during the follow-up period. There was no significant difference in post-operative results. Further study will be needed to decide which lens is the better choice for delicate conditions in myopic patients.