Phacodyne

Phacodyne is a lutein-based intraocular vital dye utilized in ophthalmic surgery to enhance the visualization of intraocular membranes. It is primarily composed of lutein, a natural carotenoid, which provides a yellow-orange stain to target structures such as the anterior lens capsule during cataract surgery and the Descemet membrane during endothelial keratoplasty. Developed as a biocompatible alternative to synthetic dyes like Trypan Blue (VisionBlue) and Indocyanine Green, Phacodyne facilitates precise surgical maneuvers such as continuous circular capsulorhexis (CCC) by providing clear contrast. Its mechanism of action is physical, involving the coating and staining of basement membranes without chemical interaction or toxicity to the corneal endothelium or other sensitive intraocular tissues.

Brand names

Phacodyne

Other names

lutein-based dye