The eye has anatomical structures that function as robust static and dynamic barriers, limiting the penetration, residence time, and bioavailability of medications administered topically. The development of polymeric nano-based drug-delivery systems (DDS) could be the solution to these challenges: it can pass through ocular barriers, offering higher bioavailability of administered drugs to targeted tissues that are otherwise inaccessible; it can stay in ocular tissues for longer periods of time, requiring fewer drug administrations; and it can be made up of polymers that are biodegradable and nano-sized, minimizing the undesirable effects of the administered molecules. Therefore, therapeutic innovations in polymeric nano-based DDS have been widely explored for ophthalmic drug-delivery applications. In this review, we will give a comprehensive overview of polymeric nano-based drug-delivery systems (DDS) used in the treatment of ocular diseases. We will then examine the current therapeutic challenges of various ocular diseases and analyze how different types of biopolymers can potentially enhance our therapeutic options. A literature review of the preclinical and clinical studies published between 2017 and 2022 was conducted. Thanks to the advances in polymer science, the ocular DDS has rapidly evolved, showing great promise to help clinicians better manage patients.

Glaucoma, marked by its intricate association with intraocular pressure (IOP), stands as a predominant cause of non-reversible vision loss. In this review, the physiological relevance of IOP is detailed, alongside its potential pathological consequences. The review further delves into innovative engineering solutions for IOP monitoring, highlighting the latest advancements in wearable and implantable sensors and their potential in enhancing glaucoma management. These technological innovations are interwoven with clinical practice, underscoring their real-world applications, patient-centered strategies, and the prospects for future development in IOP control. By synthesizing theoretical concepts, technological innovations, and practical clinical insights, this review contributes a cohesive and comprehensive perspective on the IOP biosensor’s role in glaucoma, serving as a reference for ophthalmological researchers, clinicians, and professionals.

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) play a pivotal role in restoring vision following cataract surgery. The evolution of polymeric biomaterials has been central to addressing challenges such as biocompatibility, optical clarity, mechanical stability, and resistance to opacification. This review explores essential requirements for IOL biomaterials, emphasizing their ability to mitigate complications like posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and dysphotopsias while maintaining long-term durability and visual quality. Traditional polymeric materials, including polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), silicone, and acrylic polymers, are critically analyzed alongside cutting-edge innovations such as hydrogels, shape memory polymers, and light-adjustable lenses (LALs). Advances in polymer engineering have enabled these materials to achieve enhanced flexibility, transparency, and biocompatibility, driving their adoption in modern IOL design. Functionalization strategies, including surface modifications and drug-eluting designs, highlight advancements in preventing inflammation, infection, and other complications. The incorporation of UV-blocking and blue-light-filtering agents is also examined for their potential in reducing retinal damage. Furthermore, emerging technologies like nanotechnology and smart polymer-based biomaterials offer promising avenues for personalized, biocompatible IOLs with enhanced performance. Clinical outcomes, including visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and patient satisfaction, are evaluated to provide an understanding of the current advancements and limitations in IOL development. We also discuss the current challenges and future directions, underscoring the need for cost-effective, innovative polymer-based solutions to optimize surgical outcomes and improve patients’ quality of life.

Purpose: To report on the importance of detecting and investigating non-traumatic enophthalmos, which occurred as the first presenting sign of an undiagnosed metastatic breast carcinoma in two patients with no prior history of neoplasia. Design: Case series. Observations: The first case consists of a 74-year-old woman with no significant past medical history, who presented with a non-traumatic enophthalmos and ptosis of her left eye, and horizontal diplopia on right-gaze. Imaging revealed an intraconal lesion of her left orbit, with orbital fat atrophy. Transcutaneous anterior orbitotomy was performed for tumor biopsy, and the histopathology study concluded on a diagnosis of orbital metastasis consistent with infiltrative breast carcinoma. Thorough breast imaging and multiple breast biopsies were not able to localize the primary tumor. The second case consists of a 76-year-old woman, with no prior relevant medical history, who presented for progressive enophthalmos and ptosis of her right eye. Imaging revealed an osteolytic lesion of her right frontal bone, and multiple infiltrative lesions implicating both orbits. A biopsy was performed through a transcutaneous anterior orbitotomy and histopathology study lead to a diagnosis of metastatic lobular breast carcinoma. The primary breast tumor was localized using positron emission tomography, and further biopsy confirmed the diagnosis. Conclusion: Although uncommon, non-traumatic enophthalmos has a broad differential diagnosis. In some rare instances, it may be the initial presentation of orbital metastases in patients with no prior history of cancer, and in the absence of other systemic symptoms. Clinicians must be thorough when assessing and investigating this clinical entity. A comprehensive eye exam, systemic evaluation, orbit imaging, biopsy and immunohistochemistry analysis are essential to promptly diagnose orbital metastases and plan the appropriate treatment.