IOLexchange

IOLexchange is a digital platform designed to facilitate the management and exchange of intraocular lenses (IOLs) among ophthalmology clinics, hospitals, and medical distributors. The service aims to improve inventory efficiency, reduce waste, and expand access to a range of IOL types and powers for cataract and refractive procedures.

Participants create accounts and list IOLs by model, power, material, coating, packaging, and expiration date, along with sterilization status and other quality information. The platform provides search and filtering tools, metadata standards, and a matching engine that connects suppliers with facilities seeking specific IOL specifications. Transfers are documented with custody changes, lot numbers, and receipt confirmations to support traceability.

Clinical and operational benefits include lower holding costs, better fill rates for cataract surgeries, and improved procurement planning. The platform can also help facilities compare pricing and availability across a network, while enabling anonymized usage analytics and inventory reporting for institutional management.

Regulatory and safety considerations are central to IOLexchange. Participating entities must comply with applicable medical device regulations, sterilization and handling standards, and privacy laws governing patient- or facility-related data. The system emphasizes data integrity, audit trails, and secure data exchange to protect patient safety and supplier liability.

Limitations include reliance on active participation by hospitals and distributors, potential regulatory variability across jurisdictions, and the need for rigorous quality verification of listed devices. Ongoing developments focus on expanding interoperability with procurement systems, enhancing serialization, and strengthening governance to maintain safety and reliability.