The MemoryLens (aka Memory Lens, ultraviolet-absorbing hydrophilic lens) was used for cataract patients starting in 1998.  It's indicated use was for aphakia (lack of a lens), which is what occurs when a cataractous lens is removed.  While it was designed for life -long implantation, a defect in the device lead to clouding and vision loss.  This is a gradual clouding and often not recognized as a problem promptly.  Removal and replacement became necessary in clouded lenses.

Its use was to replace lenses affected by cataracts.  There are many types of intra ocular lenses, and these were a new style designed for easier implantation and less discomfort.  It was known as Model U940A which had an ultraviolet absorbing hydrophilic posterior chamber.  It was designed, manufactured and originally sold by Mentor Corp. in Santa Barbara , Ca.  They are a medical device maker including silicone and saline breast implants.

A separate company is also identified on the Pre-market Approval (PMA) application as a manufacturer of the device, Mentor Opthalmics Corporation located in Norwell, Massachusetts. The sale of the Mentor ophthalmic entities to CIBA Vision was announced on May 17, 1999. Ciba Vision is the ophthalmologic subsidiary of Novartis AG. CIBA is a Duluth, Ga based company.

The device was recalled by CIBA Vision in 2000 after it purchased the Mentor assets as a result of problems associated with a polymer in the lens.  This was a manufacturer initiated action as is most recalls and the FDA classified it as a Class II recall on June 28, 2000.

Although the recall was years ago there may be thousands of the devices out there which are failing.  The symptoms may be a gradual loss of vision caused by clouding of the lens.  Removal and replacement may be necessary.  This is a question for you and your doctors.  If this occurs, hopefully replacement will be uneventful, but there could be cases where additional damage is done to one's eyesight.

We would be glad to talk with you in case you have had a Mentor MemoryLens.  This is confidential and at no cost to you.  Contact us at  Rheingold, Valet, Rheingold, Shkolnik & McCartney .