Techniques of intraocular lens suspension in the absence of capsular/zonular support

The implantation of the scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lens with 9/0 polypropylene sutures - Long-term visual outcomes and complications

PURPOSE

To analyze long-term visual outcomes and complications of the implantation of a scleralfixated posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) in patients with the lack of adequate capsular support, and to verify if the procedure can be performed with 9-0 polypropylene sutures.

METHODS

The study was designed as a long-term retrospective analysis. Patients after the implantation of a scleralfixated PC-IOL were evaluated for the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure and occurrence of postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The analysis included 29 eyes from 28 patients. Indications for the IOL implantation included ocular trauma (89.7%) and previous complicated cataract surgery (10.3%). A postoperative improvement of BCVA was observed in 25 eyes (86.2%). Mean follow-up time was 63.9 months (range 50-83 months). During this time, six patients (21.4%) were diagnosed with glaucoma (21.4%), and retinal detachment was found in one eye (3.4%). A total of six suture breakages were recorded in four eyes from four patients (13.8%); one breakage was precipitated by a trauma, and another five, involving three eyes from three patients, were spontaneous. Mean time to the spontaneous suture breakage was 40.8 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Scleral fixation of the PC-IOL provides satisfactory visual outcomes. However, this procedure is associated with a considerable risk of postoperative complications. The incidence of postoperative suture breakage in our series was similar as in previous studies in which the PC-IOL was fixated with 10-0 polypropylene suture. A superiority of 9-0 polypropylene suture needs to be verified in larger series of consecutive patients.

Intraocular lens intracapsular fixation with unilateral loop suture for 180 degree Zinn's zonule dialysis

We developed intraocular lens (IOL) fixation procedure that only uses one suture during Zinn’s zonule dialysis portion of the combined surgery for IOL intracapsular fixation and unilateral loop suture for preserving the lens capsule. We treated 15 eyes in 15 patients which were confirmed to have almost 180° zonular dialysis during cataract surgery. After removing the lens, a scleral flap was created on the dialysis side. A straight needle for suturing was then inserted into the anterior chamber from the opposite side of the dialysis. The needle was used to attach the equatorial segment of the capsule on the dialysis side from the inside to the outside and then pull the suture thread under the scleral flap. After the thread was bound to a preceding loop of IOL, the IOL was inserted into the bag. Our procedure was found to be simple and less invasive, as our technique required no vitrectomy to be performed.

[Assessment of astigmatism associated with the iris-fixated ARTISAN aphakia implant: Anterior fixation versus posterior fixation, study of postoperative follow-up at one year]

PURPOSE

The goal of our retrospective, single-center study of a case series was to compare the total, corneal, and internal astigmatism, and the visual acuity at one year after combined or stand-alone surgery consisting of iris fixation of an iris-claw intraocular lens (ARTISAN aphakia) in aphakic patients, according to whether the lens was fixated to the anterior (n=21) or posterior (n=51) surface of the iris.

RESULTS

We did not find a significant difference between these two types of fixation for any of the studied variables. The surgically induced astigmatism was 1.67 D at 176° in group A versus 1.19 D at 11° in group P.

CONCLUSION

Although this surgery creates additional corneal astigmatism, it has not been proven that it differs depending on the type of fixation of the iris-claw. If we adhere to the notion that the posterior fixated iris-claw decreases the risk of endothelial decompensation in case the implant becomes disenclavated, then reverse iris fixation of the iris-claw makes sense.

Secondary intraocular lens implantation with absence of capsular support: Scleral versus iris fixation

PURPOSE

To assess the outcomes of iris fixated (IF) posterior chamber (PC) intraocular lens (IOL) versus scleral-fixated (SF) PC IOL implantation, and compare them with the results reviewed from the literature.

SETTING

The study took place in the ophthalmology department of the Eye and Ear Hospital (Lebanon).

DESIGN

This is a retrospective institutional study that collected the records of patients admitted for secondary IOL implantation between January 2007 and December 2016.

METHODS

A total of 28 eyes that underwent PC IOL fixation were included, 13 of which underwent trans-scleral PC IOL fixation and 15 of which underwent iris PC IOL fixation. Data were analyzed over a period of 3 years.

RESULTS

Of the 28 patients, 18 (64.3%) were male and 10 (35.7%) were female (mean age at intervention 36.78±23.47 [standard deviation, SD] years). There were no significant intergroup differences with regard to baseline values and demographic characteristics. Trauma was the most common etiology for posterior capsule insufficiency (82.1%). The mean preoperative baseline BCVA was 0.58±0.27 logMAR for SF and 0.27±0.20 logMAR for IF (P=0.07). Both groups had significant improvement in vision during the follow up period. No significant differences were noted regarding early or late postoperative complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

SF and IF techniques for PC IOL have similar outcomes and result in a significant improvement in BCVA. When compared to AC (anterior chamber) IOL, both techniques seem to yield fewer complications.

Evaluation of Sutureless, Glueless, Flapless, Intrascleral Fixated Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens in Children with Ectopia Lentis

Aim

This paper aims at evaluating refractive outcome and complication profile of sutureless, glueless, flapless, intrascleral fixation of intraocular lens (SFIOL) in pediatric population.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients ≤18 years of age who underwent SFIOL for ectopia lentis. Details obtained included preoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), cycloplegic refraction, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA); intraoperative complications; and postoperative UCVA, cycloplegic refraction, and BCVA and complications.

Results

Median pre- and postoperative UCVA was logMAR 1.78 (Snellen 20/1200) and logMAR 0.30 (Snellen 20/40), respectively, (p < 0.001). Median pre- and postoperative BCVA was logMAR 0.24 (Snellen 20/34) and logMAR 0.18 (Snellen 20/30), respectively. UCVA ≥20/60 was attained in 90% of eyes. BCVA ≥20/30 was attained in 85.0% of eyes. Most common early postoperative complications were hyphaema (10%), transient vitreous hemorrhage (2.5%), and ocular hypotony (2.5%). None of these developed any long-term sequelae. Only one case of subluxation of IOL was seen. No case of late endophthalmitis or retinal detachment was seen.

Conclusion

Since refractive error induced is minimal, the procedure is suitable for IOL implantation in children, who are noncompliant with spectacles. The complication profile is similar to that reported in adults.

Anatomy of the ciliary sulcus and the optimum site of needle passage for intraocular lens suture fixation in the living eye

PURPOSE

To determine the relationship of the anatomic position of tissue surrounding the ciliary sulcus using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) for measurement of ciliary sulcus parameters and the surrounding tissue after intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE) and determine the correct suture site for intraocular lens (IOL) suture fixation.

SETTING

Sugiura Eye Clinic, Asahi General Hospital, Shizouka-ken, Japan.

DESIGN

Prospective case series.

METHODS

Using UBM, the angle of the ciliary sulcus and several areas of the tissue surrounding the ciliary sulcus were measured from 8 orientations in eyes after ICCE. These measurements and endoscopic observation of the ciliary sulcus indicated the optimum points of needle insertion and needle emergence on the sclera for IOL suture fixation. Endoscopic observation of the ciliary sulcus also showed its shape.

RESULTS

The shape of the surrounding tissue of the ciliary sulcus was measured in 16 eyes after ICCE, and endoscopy was used to observe the ciliary sulcus during surgery in 150 eyes. For ab interno ciliary sulcus suture fixation, the correct point of needle emergence on the sclera was 2.5 mm from the posterior surgical limbus when a straight needle was used. For ab externo pars plana suture fixation, the correct point of needle insertion on the sclera was 3.0 mm from the posterior surgical limbus. Endoscopic observation showed that the lower surface of the ciliary sulcus was formed by the fusion of neighboring ciliary processes.

CONCLUSION

Knowing the detailed shape of ciliary sulcus will allow for more precise IOL suture fixation.

27-gauge needle-assisted externalization and haptic securing technique for sutureless scleral fixation of the intraocular lens - moving toward simplicity

Purpose

To report a modified technique of sutureless intrascleral fixation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens with use of instruments of anterior segment surgery and its outcomes.

Design

Prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.

Participants

Ninety-two eyes of 92 patients with aphakia and subluxated lens who underwent surgery were evaluated.

Materials and methods

27-gauge needles were introduced transclerally and guided by the viscocanula to externalize via the main wound. The haptics were loaded into the lumen and externalized from entry points. The haptics were then fixed in a scleral tunnel made by a 27-gauge needle. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and complications were determined.

Results

Ninety two eyes which were operated and completed follow-up of 6 weeks were included in the study. The most common indications for scleral-fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL) were subluxated lens – 55 eyes (59%), and surgical aphakia – 31 eyes (34%). Sixty-nine eyes (75.7%) had a postoperative vision of uncorrected visual acuity of 6/18 on day 1. There was an improvement in mean logMAR BCVA (0.086±0.18) at 6 weeks as compared to preoperative visual acuity (p<0.05). BCVA of 6/12 or better was attained in 94% of the cases at 6 weeks. Special mentions need to be made for 6 (7%) of our cases. Three of the patients were cases of fully treated postoperative endophthalmitis who lacked capsular support. Two of the other cases had undergone pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment. Both had silicon oil removal done 1 month before the SFIOL procedure. One of the patients had Marfan’s syndrome.

Conclusion

Our procedure is safe, easy, less traumatic, and less resource-demanding with good visual outcomes and can be performed even in low-resource settings of developing countries. It may also be considered in patients who have had posterior segment surgeries previously.

Comparison of Three Intraocular Lens Implantation Procedures for Aphakic Eyes With Insufficient Capsular Support: A Network Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical outcomes and main complications of transscleral-fixated (TSF), intrascleral-fixated (ISF), and iris-fixated (IF) intraocular lenses (IOLs).

DESIGN

Systematic review and network meta-analysis.

METHODS

The authors searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library for relevant articles up to April 2017 with no language restrictions, and related studies meeting the eligibility criteria were included. A Bayesian framework was applied to compare the visual outcomes and complications of these 3 approaches.

RESULTS

A total of 14 studies with 845 eyes were included in the present report. There was no significant difference between any pair of surgical approaches in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and in final BCVA achieving 20/40 or better (Snellen). ISF presented a lower risk of cystoid macular edema (CME) compared with TSF (risk ratio [RR], 0.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], [0.18, 1.0]). IF showed superiorities in less intraocular hemorrhage (IOH) than ISF (RR, 0.078; 95% CI [0.0095, 0.38]), as well as TSF (RR, 0.26; 95% CI, [0.09, 0.72]). IF had a lower risk of glaucoma escalation; the difference was slightly higher than the conventional level of significance (RR, 0.41; 95% CI, [0.16, 1.04]). Moreover, the surgical time in IF was shorter than TSF (standard mean difference [SMD], -2.98; 95% CI, [-4.32, -1.64]) and ISF (SMD, -2.60; 95% CI, [-3.71, -1.49]). However, IF was associated with a significantly higher risk of endothelial cell density (ECD) impairment (SMD, -0.54; 95% CI, [-1.02, -0.05]) and significantly greater postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss rate (ECLR, %) (SMD, 0.35; 95% CI, [0.08, 0.63]) compared with TSF.

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative visual outcomes were comparable among TSF, ISF, and IF for eyes with insufficient capsular support. However, the risk of some complications differed among approaches. IF showed its superiorities in lower risk of IOH and glaucoma escalation as well as shorter surgical time, while IF was at a disadvantage in greater endothelial cell impairment. Since some patients might have a clear contraindication to one of the surgical approaches, the decision of surgical approach eventually depends on surgeon experience and the presenting pathology.

Modified sewing machine technique for iridodialysis repair, intraocular lens relocation, iris coloboma repair, Cionni ring fixation, and scleral-fixated intraocular lens

The purpose of this study is to report the modification of sewing machine technique for iris dialysis repair (MSMT) and its usefulness in managing other conditions such as intraocular lens (IOL) subluxation, iris coloboma, Cionni ring for zonular dialysis, and for scleral-fixated IOL. MSMT was based on sewing machine principle using a prethreaded 26G/30G needle with prolene suture for minimally invasive iris dialysis repair in a closed chamber manner. So far, eight patients (trauma - 3, surgical complication - 5) underwent this procedure. This technique is further modified to extend its use for IOL relocation - 2, iris coloboma repair - 3, and Cionni ring fixation for zonular dialysis - 2, SFIOL - 5 patients. All 20 patients had good visual recovery and cosmetic outcome with minimal morbidity. To conclude, MSMT offers cost -effective, minimally invasive, easy to learn procedure with a potential to tackle several problems related with cataract surgery and iris defects, which even an average cataract surgeon can learn to perform when required. Further comparative studies with conventional techniques with large sample size are required to standardize this procedure.

Long-term Outcome of Pars Plana Vitrectomy and Sutured Scleral-Fixated Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens Implantation or Repositioning

PURPOSE

To assess the long-term stability of sutured scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PCIOLs) performed in combination with pars plana vitrectomy.

DESIGN

Retrospective, consecutive, interventional case series.

METHODS

Retrospective single-surgeon study of 118 eyes of 111 patients seen at Retina Consultants of Hawaii, who underwent sutured scleral fixation of at least 1 haptic of a posterior chamber intraocular lens with 10-0 polypropylene combined with a pars plana vitrectomy. The fixation knot-tying technique required 2 separate 10-0 polypropylene sutures tied into 1 combined knot-1 suture closed the fixation sclerotomy and created the scleral fixation, and 1 suture looped together around the haptic of the PCIOL, securing the haptic to the scleral fixation site. The primary outcomes were position of the PCIOL at last follow-up, dislocation of either 1 or both haptics of the PCIOL, and breakage of the 10-0 polypropylene fixation suture.

RESULTS

PCIOLs remained well stabilized and positioned at last follow-up in 116 of 118 eyes (98.3%), with a mean follow-up of 6.0 years. The maximum stable follow-up with 2 intact fixation sutures was 24.75 years. There were 4 cases of redislocation (3.4%), but 2 cases were owing to unstable residual capsular support. There was 1 case of suture breakage in 214 fixation sutures (0.47%) and 1 case of haptic breakage.

CONCLUSIONS

Scleral fixation sutures with 10-0 polypropylene provide excellent long-term fixation of PCIOLs, with a less than 0.5% incidence of suture breakage and documented suture stability for up to 24+ years.

A comparative study of transscleral suture-fixated and scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation

PURPOSE

To compare short-term clinical outcomes between scleral-fixated and transscleral suture-fixated intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

SEETING

Hiroshima Prefectural Hospital, Japan.

DESIGN

A retrospective, nonrandomized, comparative case series.

METHODS

Eighty-nine eyes of 87 patients were included in this study; 45 eyes underwent transscleral suture-fixated IOL implantation (group 1), and 44 eyes underwent scleral-fixated IOL implantation (group 2) between February 2009 and June 2017 in the department of Ophthalmology, Hiroshima Prefectural Hospital, Japan. The postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), degree of astigmatism, IOL astigmatism (total astigmatism-corneal astigmatism), and refractive error were all measured at 1-week and 1-month intervals.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative BCVA in logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (log MAR) was 0.39 ± 0.56 and 0.46 ± 0.51 in groups 1 and 2, respectively, and the mean postoperative BCVA was 0.25 ± 0.41 and 0.34 ± 0.49 at 1 month. The postoperative degree of astigmatism in group 2 was significantly less than that in group 1 at 1 week and 1 month (p = 0.0046 and p = 0.021, respectively). The postoperative IOL astigmatism in group 2 was significantly less than that in group 1 at 1 week (p = 0.021), while the refractive error between the two groups was not significantly different at 1 week or 1 month.

CONCLUSIONS

Scleral-fixated IOL implantation has equivalent BCVA and refractive error outcomes as transscleral suture-fixated IOL implantation during the early postoperative period without serious complications. Scleral-fixated IOL implantation appears to provide more stable fixation than suture-fixated IOL implantation.

Long-term outcome of scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation with the knotless Z-suture technique

PURPOSE

To assess the long-term results and complications of scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC IOLs) with the knotless Z-suture technique.

SETTING

University Eye Hospital, Tübingen, Germany.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

Records of consecutive patients who had implantation of scleral-fixated PC IOLs with the knotless Z-suture technique with a minimum follow-up of 3 years were reviewed.

RESULTS

Sixty-six eyes of 62 patients were included. The mean preoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was 0.71 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) ± 0.58 (SD). The mean CDVA was 0.67 ± 0.54 logMAR (P = .257; n = 66) after 3 years, 0.73 ± 0.55 logMAR (P = .399; n = 60) after 5 years, 0.8 ± 0.68 logMAR (P = .348; n = 30) after 8 years, and 1.09 ± 0.76 logMAR (P = .069; n = 13) after 10 years. Failure because of suture breakage was observed in 11 eyes (16.7%) after a mean of 7.5 years. Kaplan-Meier time-to-event analysis showed a 40% failure probability after 10 years. Traumatic aphakia was the only risk factor for failure (odds ratio 4.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-18.3; P = .049). Complications included retinal detachment (15%), cystoid macular edema (9%), increased intraocular pressure requiring surgical intervention (7.6%), corneal edema (4.5%), and posterior iris-chafing syndrome with microhyphema (3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of scleral-fixated PC IOLs using the knotless Z-suture was a safe technique resulting in good visual outcomes. The long-term success of the procedure was dependent on the material properties of the suture.

Transscleral Suture-Fixated Versus Intrascleral Haptic-Fixated Intraocular Lens: A Comparative Study

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical outcomes between sutured transscleral-fixated and intrascleral haptic-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL).

SETTING

Dr Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.

DESIGN

A comparative case series.

METHODS

Forty eyes of 40 patients were included; 20 in each group. Patients in group 1 underwent sutured transscleral-fixated IOL and those in group 2 underwent intrascleral haptic-fixated IOL augmented by fibrin glue. Parameters evaluated were uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), central macular thickness (CMT), IOL tilt on ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), and pseudophakodonesis on slitlamp and UBM.

RESULTS

The most common cause of aphakia was complicated cataract surgery (50%). The mean preoperative UCVA in logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) was 1.59±0.24 and 1.63±0.26 in group 1 and 2, respectively (P=0.45). There was significant improvement in UCVA in both groups (P=0.001) at 6 months (group 1: 0.33±0.17; group 2: 0.22±0.10); the improvement being greater in group 2 (P<0.05). Mean percentage endothelial cell loss and IOP change were comparable. Mean CMT (μm) was 250.95±23.98 and 225.85±21.13 in group 1 and 2, respectively (P=0.009). Pseudophakodonesis was more in group 1 as assessed on slitlamp (P=0.037) and as assessed on UBM (P=0.046). Macular edema was the most common complication seen more in group 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Intrascleral haptic-fixated IOL provides more stable fixation, better visual outcome, and lesser complication in comparison with sutured transscleral-fixated IOL.

Clinical outcomes of combined pars plana vitrectomy and trans-scleral 4-point suture fixation of a foldable intraocular lens

OBJECTIVE

To describe outcomes of combined pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and trans-scleral 4-point suture fixation of a foldable Akreos AO60 intraocular lens (IOL) in eyes with subluxated or dislocated lens or IOL.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of 20 eyes of 18 patients who underwent this procedure with a minimum follow-up of 3 months. Outcome measures included final best-corrected Snellen visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE) and intraoperative and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Mean age at surgery was 43.65 years. The commonest indication for surgery was post-traumatic subluxated or dislocated cataract. Mean BCVA improved from 6/24 preoperatively to 6/9 at final follow-up (p < 0.0001). Mean SE was 5.69 dioptres preoperatively and -1.32 dioptres postoperatively. There were no intraoperative complications. Postoperative complications included transient vitreous haemorrhage in one eye and cystoid macular oedema in one eye. Postoperative Pentacam analysis confirmed the absence of IOL tilt or decentration in six eyes. Mean follow-up was 8.9 months (range 3-30 months).

CONCLUSION

Trans-scleral 4-point suture fixation of a foldable Akreos AO60 IOL can be performed safely along with concurrent PPV across varying surgical indications resulting in a substantial improvement in visual acuity with minimal complications.

Temporary Haptic Externalization and Four-point Fixation of Intraocular Lens in Scleral Fixation to Enhance Stability

PURPOSE

To report the results of a new technique for intraocular lens scleral fixation of temporary haptic externalization and four-point fixation for enhanced stability.

METHODS

Two 10-0 polypropylene strands were fixed at two points 2 mm apart on each haptic of a conventional three-piece intraocular lens, using our previously reported method of temporary haptic externalization after injector implantation. Postoperative refractive outcome and stability were evaluated.

RESULTS

Although the intraocular lens was fixed at a total of four points, no intraoperative difficulties were observed during the process. Patients showed successful fixation of the intraocular lens postoperatively. The fixed intraocular lens showed good centering and minimal tilting. When compared to the two-point fixation technique, postoperative astigmatism was significantly smaller in the four-point fixation group (1.80 ± 0.84 vs. 1.00 ± 0.0.50, p = 0.033). Lens-induced astigmatism calculated from subtraction of corneal astigmatism from total astigmatism was also significantly smaller in the four-point fixation group (2.23 ± 0.98 vs.1.17 ± 0.0.70, p = 0.043). No postoperative complications were identified during a mean follow-up period of 14.8 months (range, 10 to 19 months).

CONCLUSIONS

By fixing the intraocular lens at two points on each side of the haptics, this method minimizes the tilting of the intraocular lens and thus decreases postoperative lens-induced astigmatism. Also, the possibility of intraocular lens dislocation in the long term might be decreased by this two-point fixation technique.

Sutureless glueless intrascleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lens: Boon for aphakic

Purpose:

To report results of intrascleral fixation of 3-piece IOL without the help of suture and glue.

Methods:

Study included intrascleral fixation of haptic in 50 eyes by T-fixation technique. Preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, slit lamp and fundus examination, applanation tonometry, keratometry, biometry, optical coherence tomography, Scheimpflug imaging were done for extensive evaluation. Qualitative and quantitative data were summarized in the form of proportion and mean and standard deviation, respectively. The significance of difference was measured by Chi-square test or unpaired t-test or ANOVA whichever is appropriate. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

There was one case in which haptic broke during handshake maneuver and another IOL was required. Postoperative complications included corneal edema (4%), increased intraocular pressure (6%), cystoid macular edema (2%), decentration (4%), and dislocation (2%), which were all managed to the level of good visual recovery. There was no significant change in corneal astigmatism. There was significant change found in best-corrected visual acuity and uncorrected visual acuity after surgery.

Conclusion:

This modified technique seems to be a good alternative in IOL implantation in eyes with deficient capsules in view of the decrease in the learning time and surgical time and risk for complications.

Posterior capsular rent: Prevention and management

This review article deals with a potentially sight threatening complication – rupture of the posterior capsule – during cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgical procedure in ophthalmology and despite tremendous technical and technological advancements, posterior capsular rent (PCR) still occurs. PCR occurs both in the hands of experienced senior surgeons and the neophyte surgeons, although with a higher frequency in the latter group. Additionally, certain types of cataracts are prone to this development. If managed properly in a timely manner the eventual outcome may be no different from that of an uncomplicated case. However, improper management may lead to serious complications with a higher incidence of permanent visual disability. The article covers the management of posterior capsular rent from two perspectives: 1. Identifying patients at higher risk and measures to manage such patients by surgical discipline, and 2. Intraoperative management of posterior capsular rent and various case scenarios to minimize long-term complications. This review is written for experienced and not-so-experienced eye surgeons alike to understand and manage PCR.

Glued intraocular lens implantation for eyes with inadequate capsular support: Analysis of the postoperative visual outcome

Aim:

The aim of this study is to analyze the postoperative visual outcomes of fibrin glue-assisted, suture-less posterior chamber (PC) intraocular lens (IOL) implantation technique in eyes with inadequate capsule support at a tertiary eye care hospital in South India.

Setting and Design:

This is a retrospective, nonrandomized case series.

Patients and Methods:

This study analyzes 94 eyes which underwent PC-IOL implantation by fibrin glue-assisted, suture-less technique. All patients who had IOL implants by the fibrin glue-assisted PC-IOL technique from August 2009 to January 2014 were included in the study. Intra- and post-operative complications were analyzed. The postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) was evaluated and recorded at the end of 6 months.

Statistical Analysis:

The data were analyzed using SPSS version 16.1 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA) using two sample paired t-test and independent t-test.

Results:

A total of 94 eyes of 92 patients that underwent glued IOL implantation over a period of 5 years were analyzed. Out of 94 eyes, 77 eyes (84.6%) maintained or improved on their preoperative BSCVA (P = 0.012).

Conclusion:

We conclude that glued IOL implantation is a feasible option in rehabilitating patients with aphakia without adequate capsular support.

Surgical refixation of posteriorly dislocated intraocular lens with scleral-tuck technique

Purpose:

To report the outcomes of surgical refixation of posteriorly dislocated intraocular lens (IOL) using scleral-tuck method, and to compare the “scleral groove” and the “scleral flap” techniques used.

Study Design:

Single-center, retrospective, interventional, comparative study.

Methods:

Medical records of patients undergoing closed globe scleral refixation of posteriorly dislocated posterior chamber IOL (PCIOLs) by scleral-tuck method using two different techniques (”scleral groove” vs. “scleral flap” technique) were reviewed. This approach involved retrieving the dislocated PCIOL, externalizing the haptics through 2 sclerotomies created in paralimbal lamellar scleral grooves, or under lamellar scleral flaps and tucking the haptics into limbus-parallel scleral tunnels. No specific haptic architecture, haptic suturing, or large incisions were needed. Main outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), final mean refractive error, and intra- and post-operative complications.

Results:

Thirteen eyes of 13 patients (scleral groove, n = 6; scleral flap, n = 7 eyes) with a mean follow-up of 20.6 months were included. BCVA in all eyes was maintained or improved postoperatively, with three eyes (23%) showing ≥2 line improvement. Median astigmatic error at 6-week follow-up was −1.25 D cylinder (range: −0.5 D–−2.0 D) which remained stable till final follow-up. All IOLs remained stable and well centered. None of the eyes had a recurrent dislocation, retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, or glaucoma. Both techniques were comparable in terms of postoperative BCVA, and refraction.

Conclusion:

Intrascleral haptic fixation by scleral-tuck method is reliable and effective for secure IOL refixation of posteriorly dislocated IOLs, providing good IOL centration and stability with minimal surgically-induced astigmatism. Both techniques (scleral groove and scleral flap) appear to have similar outcomes in the short term.

Complications of Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lenses

INTRODUCTION

Understanding the evolution of complications after scleral-fixated lens placement demonstrates advantageous surgical techniques and suitable candidates.

MATERIALS/METHODS

A literature search in PubMed for several terms, including "scleral intraocular lens complication," yielded 17 relevant articles.

RESULTS

Reviewing complication trends over time, lens tilt and suture erosion have decreased, cystoid macular edema has increased, and retinal detachment has remained the same after scleral-fixated lens placement. The successful reduction in complications are attributed to several alterations in technique, including positioning sclerotomy sites 180 degrees apart and using scleral flaps or pockets to bury sutures. Possible reduction in retinal risks have been proposed by performing an anterior vitrectomy prior to lens placement in certain settings.

DISCUSSION

Complications after scleral-fixated lens placement should assist patient selection. Elderly patients with a history of hypertension should be counseled regarding risk of suprachoroidal hemorrhage, while young patients and postocular trauma patients should be considered for concurrent anterior vitrectomy.

Assessment of the safety and efficacy of primary retropupillary fixation of iris-claw intraocular lenses in children with large lens subluxations

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether retropupillary fixation of the iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) is a safe and effective treatment option in children with large lens subluxations.

METHODS

Fourteen eyes of children between the ages of 8-17 years with lens subluxations more than 7 clock hours underwent pars plana lensectomy-vitrectomy with implantation of the iris-claw IOL in the retropupillary position as a primary procedure. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial count (EC) and the lens position using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) were assessed pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, all patients had an increase in the BCVA with a mean of 0.351 ± 0.154 log MAR units which was statistically significant as compared to the preoperative value of 0.771 ± 0.132 log MAR units (p = 0.003). The difference between the mean preoperative IOP (13.642 ± 2.437 mmHg) and the mean postoperative intraocular pressure at the end of 6 months (13.5 ± 2.244 mmHg) was not statistically significant (p = 0.671). The mean EC decreased by 0.99% from 2838.42 ± 474.76 cells/mm² preoperatively to 2810 ± 461.24 cells/mm² at the end of 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.117). The lens position was analyzed using UBM and was found to be parallel to the iris plane in all cases at the end of 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that primary retropupillary iris-claw IOL implantation can be a safe and efficacious option for children with large (>7 clock hours) lens subluxations that is at least comparable to scleral-fixated PCIOLs.

Effects of optical diameter of intraocular lenses with intrascleral fixation on higher-order aberrations

Background

Intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens (IOL) is used in eyes that lack capsular support. The aim of the study is to determine whether a larger optical diameter IOL will decrease the higher-order aberrations (HOAs) when the haptics are extended for intrascleral fixation than a smaller diameter IOL.

Methods

Three-piece acrylic IOLs with 6.0 mm optics (X-60, VA-60BBR) and 7.0 mm optics (X-70, VA-70 AD) were fixed at lengths of 13, 14, 15, 16, or 17 mm. A wavefront analyzer was used to measure the HOAs within the central 3.0 and 5.2 mm optic diameter.

Results

The astigmatic aberration within the central 5.2 mm was greater than that within the central 3.0 mm for all IOLs. The HOAs increased significantly with an extension of the IOLs with both optical diameters (P < 0.001). The coma aberration within the central 5.2 mm was greater than that within the central 3.0 mm but it did not increase with an extension of the haptics. The astigmatic aberration of the X-60 IOL was significantly greater than that of the X-70 only at an extension of 17 mm. The astigmatic aberration of the VA-70 AD was not significantly different from that of the VA-60BBR. The cylindrical power changed from 0.047 D in the X-60 to 0.118 D in the VA-70 AD when the IOLs were extended from 13 to 17 mm.

Conclusion

When three-piece IOLs are highly extended for intrascleral fixation, the astigmatic aberration increases significantly. However, IOLs with 7 mm optics do not have less astigmatic and coma aberrations than IOLs with 6 mm optics.

Flanged Intrascleral Intraocular Lens Fixation with Double-Needle Technique

PURPOSE

To report the clinical outcomes of a new technique for transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens (IOL).

DESIGN

Prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred eyes of 97 consecutive patients with aphakia, dislocated IOL, or subluxated crystalline lens who underwent posterior chamber sutureless implantation of an IOL were studied.

METHODS

Two angled incisions parallel to the limbus were made by 30-gauge thin-wall needles. Haptics of an IOL were externalized with the needles and cauterized to make a flange of the haptics. The flange of the haptics were pushed back and fixed into the scleral tunnels.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Best-corrected visual acuity (VA), corneal endothelial cell density, IOL tilt, and complications were determined.

RESULTS

The IOLs were fixed with exact centration and axial stability. The mean preoperative best-corrected VA was 0.25 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) units; after surgery, it improved significantly to 0.11 logMAR, 0.09 logMAR, 0.12 logMAR, and 0.04 logMAR at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively (P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P = 0.03, and P = 0.10, respectively). The mean corneal endothelial cell density decreased from 2341 cells/mm² before surgery to 2313 cells/mm², 2240 cells/mm², 2189 cells/mm², and 2244 cells/mm² at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively (P < 0.01, P < 0.01, P < 0.01, and P = 0.17, respectively). The mean IOL tilt was 3.4°±2.5°. The postoperative complications included iris capture by the IOL in 8 eyes (8%), vitreous hemorrhage in 5 eyes (5%), and cystoid macular edema in 1 eye (1%). There were no incidents of postoperative retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, or IOL dislocation.

CONCLUSIONS

We have developed a new technique for intrascleral IOL fixation. The flanged IOL fixation technique is a simple and minimally invasive method for achieving good IOL fixation with firm haptic fixation.

Motorized injector-assisted intrascleral intraocular lens fixation

For eyes with deficient capsular support, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation has long been a technical challenge. Recently, intrascleral fixation of the haptics of a three-piece posterior chamber IOL has become a popular option. In this procedure, externalization of the leading haptic during IOL injection is a stressful step. We present a modified technique to improve the ease and safety of this step. Our modified technique involves IOL injection with a motorized injector with several important modifications described here. With these modifications, a surgeon can easily maintain the correct orientation of the IOL in a well-controlled manner during IOL injection. The records of 13 patients who underwent this technique were retrospectively evaluated. Corrected-distance visual acuity improved significantly after surgery (p<0.05). No postoperative retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, IOL decentration, or vitreous hemorrhage was noted during the follow-up period. In conclusion, the motorized injector-assisted intrascleral IOL fixation technique is a safe and effective alternative to the conventional procedure. This technique makes the process of leading haptic externalization easier and more controllable.

Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lenses: Past and Present

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) can have inadequate support for placement in the capsular bag as a result of ocular trauma, metabolic or inherited conditions such as Marfan's syndrome or pseudoexfoliation, or complicated cataract surgery. Surgical options for patients with inadequate capsular support include alternative placement in the anterior chamber (ACIOLs), fixation to the iris, or fixation to the sclera. The surgical techniques for each of these approaches have improved considerably over the last several decades resulting in improved visual and ocular outcomes. If no capsular or iris support exists, the surgeon can fixate an IOL to the sclera or the patient can remain aphakic. IOLs can be fixated to the sclera using sutures or by tunneling the IOL haptics into the sclera without sutures. This review summarizes the pre-operative considerations, surgical techniques, outcomes, and unique complications associated with implantation of scleral-fixated IOLs.

Surgical management of spontaneous in-the-bag intraocular lens and capsular tension ring complex dislocation

We describe a technique to manage late spontaneous intraocular lens (IOL) and capsular tension ring (CTR) dislocation within the intact capsular bag. The subluxated IOL and CTR complex can be positioned in a closed chamber and fixed to the pars plana at both 3 and 9 o’clock quadrants with the presented ab externo direct scleral suturation technique which provides an easy, safe and effective surgical option for such cases.

Visual outcomes after lensectomy and iris claw artisan intraocular lens implantation in patients with Marfan syndrome

PURPOSE

To review our experience with crystalline lens extraction and iris claw Artisan IOL implantation in patients with lens subluxation secondary to Marfan syndrome.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 12 eyes of 9 patients with lens subluxation due to Marfan syndrome who underwent crystalline lens removal and Artisan IOL (Ophtec, Groningen, Netherlands) implantation. A questionnaire of pre- and post-operative data, including demographics, pre- and postoperative comorbidities and complications was completed. Patients were evaluated for visual outcome and occurrence of complications. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and spherical equivalents (SE) were compared before and after lens extraction and IOL insertion.

RESULTS

The mean age of the participants was 30.03 ± 15.02 years, and mean post-operative follow-up time was 44.5 ± 16.4 months. Mean BCVA also showed a significant improvement from 0.5 ± 0.3 at the baseline to 0.2 ± 0.2 post-operatively (P = 0.006). SE changed significantly from -11.38 ± 1.99 preoperatively to -0.45 ± 1.65 post-operatively (P = 0.003). All eyes had the IOL implanted at desired position. Post-operative complications were retinal detachment in one case and IOL dislocation in another patient. No other complication such as ocular hypertension, angle abnormalities, clinical cystoids macular edema, and corneal decompensation was observed during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

Artisan IOL implantation after lens extraction appears to be an attractive alternative for optical correction in cases of Marfan syndrome with ectopia lentis. It confers a significant improvement in visual acuity with reasonable risk profile.

New two-point scleral-fixation technique for foldable intraocular lenses with four hollow haptics

The study was to report a new two-point scleral-fixation technique for foldable intraocular lenses with four haptics. Lenses were slid into the anterior chamber from a 2.8 mm corneal incision and fixed under two sclera flaps at two opposite points. The postoperative best-corrected visual acuities (BCVAs) of all patients were significantly better than their preoperative BCVA. The results demonstrate that two-point, scleral fixations of foldable, intraocular lenses might be practicable and effective.

Visual outcomes of posterior chamber intraocular lens intrascleral fixation in the setting of postoperative and posttraumatic aphakia

Background

Several techniques for fixation of the posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) have been developed. We evaluate long-term functional outcomes and safety of posterior chamber IOL implantation using Hoffman scleral haptic fixation and sutureless Sharioth technique in patients with posttraumatic and postoperative aphakia.

Methods

This retrospective case-series included 42 eyes operated by one surgeon. The data including demographic data, ocular history, preoperative, early postoperative and final best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), rate of complications as well as postoperative IOL position were collected. The mean follow-up was 14.5 months. Hoffman haptic scleral fixation was performed in 31 eyes, Sharioth technique—in 11 eyes. Aphakia was due to eye trauma (19) or complicated cataract surgery (23).

Results

Overall, the final BCVA improved in 26 eyes, did not change in 5 eyes, and worsened in 11 eyes. No significant differences in BCVA were found between groups operated with Hoffman scleral fixation and Sharioth technique. Postoperatively, we noticed two dislocations of IOL fixated using Sharioth technique and none after Hoffman technique. No severe complications were observed.

Conclusion

Both transscleral fixation techniques are feasible methods of secondary IOL implantation in posttraumatic and postoperative aphakia. with low incidence of complications, however visual outcomes are diverse.

Transscleral fixation of single-piece foldable acrylic lens with eyelets at the optic-haptic junction

OBJECTIVE

To report the clinical outcomes of transscleral fixation using a single-piece foldable acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) with eyelets at the optic-haptic junction (enVista; Bausch & Lomb).

DESIGN

Retrospective, noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty eyes of 60 patients who underwent transscleral fixation with an enVista IOL were reviewed.

METHODS

Preoperative patient status, postoperative visual and refractive outcomes, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The study included 60 eyes of 60 patients (52 males, 8 females) with a mean age of 56.65 ± 15.57 years. At final follow-up visit, the mean follow-up was 11.40 ± 4.24 months. The mean uncorrected visual acuity (logMAR) improved from 1.95 ± 0.90 to 0.85 ± 0.77 (p < 0.001), and best corrected visual acuity (logMAR) improved from 1.11 ± 1.13 to 0.64 ± 0.70 (p = 0.006). The mean spherical equivalent improved significantly from 6.90 ± 6.10 to 0.21 ± 2.10 D postoperatively (p < 0.001). Complications included transient ocular hypertension (15%), transient hypotony (7%), and hyphema (5%), but no serious complications were observed. In all cases, the IOL remained stable and well centred.

CONCLUSIONS

Transscleral fixation using a foldable acrylic IOL with eyelets at the optic-haptic junction can be a safe and effective alternative technique to manage cases with broken capsular bag or weak zonular support.

Ab-interno scleral suture loop fixation with cow-hitch knot in posterior chamber intraocular lens decentration

Aim of Study:

To describe a simplified ab-interno cow-hitch suture fixation technique for repositioning decentered posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL).

Materials and Methods:

Two cases are presented with the surgical correction of decentered and subluxated IOL. Ab-interno scleral suture fixation technique with hitch-cow knot in the eye was performed with a ciliary sulcus guide instrument and 1 year follow-up was completed.

Results:

Both of the patients had well centered lenses postoperatively. Corrected distant and near visual acuities of the patients were improved. There was no significant postoperative complication. In the follow-up period of 1 year, no evidence of suture erosion was found.

Conclusions:

Ab-interno scleral suture loop fixation with hitch-cow knot in the eye was effective in repositioning decentered or subluxated PC IOLs with excellent postoperative centered lenses and visual outcomes.

Phacoaspiration with a Cionni ring versus pars plana lensectomy, vitrectomy and sutureless transscleral IOL fixation in pediatric patients with a subluxated lens

PURPOSE

To compare outcomes of phacoaspiration (PA) with Cionni ring-assisted posterior-chamber intraocular lens implantation (PCIOL) versus pars plana lensectomy (PPL) with anterior vitrectomy (AV) and sutureless transscleral fixation of the IOL (TSFIOL) assisted with fibrin glue in the management of a subluxated lens.

METHODS

In this prospective and comparative interventional study, one eye of children with a bilateral subluxated lens was randomized to undergo PA with PCIOL using a Cionni ring (group A: n = 14 eyes), and the other eye underwent PPL + AV with glue-assisted TSFIOL (group B: n = 14 eyes). The outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in logMAR units and rates of complications at 12-month follow-up visits.

RESULTS

28 eyes of 14 children (age: 8.06 ± 4.49 years) were included in the study. BCVA improved from preoperative value of 1.21 to 0.4 (p = 0.001) in group A and from 1.53 to 0.31 (p = 0.001) in group B at month 12. There was no significant difference in the BCVA on comparing the two groups at month 12 (p > 0.411). Postoperative complications in group A included corneal edema (two eyes), Cionni hook capture (one eye), elevated IOP (one eye), and posterior capsular opacification (five eyes). In group B, corneal edema was seen in two eyes, hypotony in one eye, vitreous hemorrhage in one eye and pupillary optic capture in four eyes.

CONCLUSION

Head-to-head comparison of the two techniques demonstrates no significant difference in the rates of complications at month 12. The decision to choose either technique may be based on the operating surgeon's skill, experience and preference.

Sutureless intrascleral intraocular lens fixation with lamellar dissection of scleral tunnel

Purpose

To report the results of sutureless scleral fixation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) by using our developed simple technique.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 48 eyes of 47 patients who underwent sutureless intrascleral IOL fixation by using our modified technique. A 25-gauge microvitreoretinal knife was used to perform sclerotomies and create limbus-parallel scleral tunnels with lamellar dissection in which the haptics were fixed.

Results

The IOLs were fixed and centered well. The mean follow-up period was 26.7 months. Postoperative complications included smooth vitreous hemorrhage in four eyes (8.3%), cystoid macular edema in two eyes (4.2%), and iris capture of the IOL in two eyes (4.2%). No other complications, such as breakage of the IOL, spontaneous IOL dislocation, or retinal detachment, were detected during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

The lamellar dissection of the limbus-parallel scleral tunnel can simplify the forceps-assisted introduction of the haptics into the scleral tunnel, and this technique seemed to be safe.