ABSTRACT
Biomaterials are used as tear substitutes, contact lenses, eye shields, drug delivery devices, corneal masks, lenticules for excimer laser refractive surgery, surgical media, vitreous substitutes, intraocular retinal tamponades, and scleral encircling elements and sponges used in retinal detachment surgery. Polysaccharides have potential applications in each of these areas mentioned because of their unique combination of chemical and physical properties. The chapter examines the use of polysaccharides in applications other than lenses since the potential contribution of new materials is highest in these newer areas of use. In order to understand the potential for polysaccharides used in ophthalmology fully, a brief review of ocular structure and the material properties of biological components that give rise to function is necessary. The eye processes electromagnetic radiation and intensity differences at various wavelengths. Viscous polysaccharide solutions are routinely used in ophthalmic surgery to maintain and create tissue spaces after a surgical wound deflates the eye through release of aqueous or vitreous humor.
