Axial myopia increases the risk of retinal complications after neodymium-YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

[Circular or radial capsulotomy for the treatment of capsular phimosis: Which is the better option?]

INTRODUCTION

Capsular phimosis is a common postoperative complication of cataract surgery, resulting from fibrous metaplasia of residual epithelial cells. It leads to capsular contraction, which affects visual quality and the stability of the intraocular lens (IOL). Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy, performed using either circular or radial techniques, remains the standard treatment.

PURPOSE

To compare the outcomes of circular vs. radial capsulotomies in terms of visual gain, postoperative complications, and IOL stability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective, randomized, single-center study was conducted on 108 eyes (54 per technique) followed for six months. The parameters evaluated included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and complications (capsular debris, IOL dislocation).

RESULTS

The circular technique provided a mean gain of 3.2 lines on the ETDRS scale, compared to 2.6 lines for the radial technique (P<0.05). Although associated with an increased rate of capsular debris (9.2%), no major complications occurred. In contrast, the radial technique was associated with a risk of partial IOL dislocation in 3 cases (5.6%).

CONCLUSION

Circular capsulotomy appears to offer better functional outcomes and enhanced IOL stability compared to the radial technique. However, larger-scale studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm these findings.

Effect of Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy on the risk of retinal detachment after cataract surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ABSTRACT

We aimed to evaluate the impact of neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy on the incidence of pseudophakic retinal detachment (RD). The PubMed and Embase databases were searched for meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to study location, number of cases, mean follow-up time, and cataract procedure. The final analysis included 11 studies with 309 cases of RD in 65,117 eyes undergoing cataract surgery. Among them, 8,232 eyes underwent Nd:YAG capsulotomy. Our analysis demonstrated an increased risk of RD with Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy (RR=1.57; 95%CI, 1.17-2.12; P=0.003; HR=1.64; 95%CI, 1.03-2.62; P=0.04). Subgroup analysis suggested somewhat stronger associations in Asian (RR=4.54; 95%CI, 2.20-9.38; P<0.0001) than in non-Asian populations (America, P=0.12; Europe and others, P=0.21), and with extracapsular cataract extraction (RR=2.97; 95%CI, 1.83-4.83; P<0.0001) than with phacoemulsification (P=0.95). To conclude, Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy may be associated with an increased risk of pseudophakic RD.

Aspirin inhibits TGFβ2-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition of lens epithelial cells: selective acetylation of K56 and K122 in histone H3

Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is a complication after cataract surgery that can disrupt vision. The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells (LECs) in response to transforming growth factor β2 (TGFβ2) has been considered an obligatory mechanism for PCO. In this study, we tested the efficacy of aspirin in inhibiting the TGFβ2-mediated EMT of human LECs, LECs in human lens capsular bags, and lensectomized mice. In human LECs, the levels of the EMT markers α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and fibronectin were drastically reduced by treatment with 2 mM aspirin. Aspirin also halted the EMT response of TGFβ2 when introduced after EMT initiation. In human capsular bags, treatment with 2 mM aspirin significantly suppressed posterior capsule wrinkling and the expression α-SMA in capsule-adherent LECs. The inhibition of TGFβ2-mediated EMT in human LECs was not dependent on Smad phosphorylation or MAPK and AKT-mediated signaling. We found that aspirin significantly increased the acetylation of K56 and K122 in histone H3 of human LECs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays using acetyl-H3K56 or acetyl-H3K122 antibody revealed that aspirin blocked the TGFβ2-induced acetylation of H3K56 and H3K122 at the promoter regions of ACTA2 and COL1A1. After lensectomy in mice, we observed an increase in the proliferation and α-SMA expression of the capsule-adherent LECs, which was ameliorated by aspirin administration through drinking water. Taken together, our results showed that aspirin inhibits TGFβ2-mediated EMT of LECs, possibly from epigenetic down-regulation of EMT-related genes.

Rate of retinal tear and detachment after neodymium:YAG capsulotomy

PURPOSE

To determine the rate of retinal tear and retinal detachment (RD) after neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) after cataract surgery.

SETTING

Province-wide outpatient and hospital settings, Alberta, Canada.

DESIGN

Database study.

METHODS

Eleven years of billing records data were collected to assess the rate of retinal tear and/or RD after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. A period of 90 days from Nd:YAG was considered the at-risk period, although statistics for 10 years of data were included in the study. Risk was calculated as a rate (%) of retinal tear or RD after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy.

RESULTS

The study comprised 92 654 discrete billing records yielding 73 586 ocular procedures for the analysis of the rate of retinal tear and/or RD after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. There were 67 287 Nd:YAG capsulotomies for PCO performed during the study. The 90-day risk for retinal tear after Nd:YAG was 0.21%; 720 retinal tears occurred in the study population at some point after the procedure. The rate of RD was 0.60%, with 2219 RDs occurring at some point after Nd:YAG capsulotomy. The cumulative risk for retinal tear or detachment at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months was 0.21%, 0.30%, 0.36%, and 0.43% and 0.60%, 0.96%, 1.19%, and 1.39%, respectively. The rates of retinal tear and detachment varied significantly between age categories.

CONCLUSIONS

There was an increased risk for RD in the first 5 months after Nd:YAG, with a return to a baseline plateau thereafter. As such, the rate of retinal tear after Nd:YAG capsulotomy at 5 months was 0.29%, whereas the rate of RD was 0.87%.

Effect of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy on intraocular pressure, refraction, anterior chamber depth, and macular thickness

Purpose: To see the effect of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy on intraocular pressure (IOP), refraction, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and macular thickness.

Methodology: The authors conducted a prospective, descriptive study on pseudophakic eyes with posterior capsule opacification who underwent Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. BCVA, IOP, spherical equivalent (SE), macular thickness, and ACD were noted preoperatively, at 1 hr postoperatively and at 1-month follow-up. Patients were divided into two groups based on energy used (Group I ≤50 mJ, Group II >50 mJ). None of the patients received prophylactic antiglaucoma medications either before or after the procedure.

Results: There were 96 eyes of 83 patients. Mean total energy levels were 26.64±12.92 mJ in Group I and 81.96±32.10 mJ in Group II. BCVA at 1 hr and 1 month postoperatively improved significantly in both the groups compared to preoperative BCVA (P<0.001). There was no significant change in SE compared to preoperative values in both the groups. The ACD continued to increase significantly in both the groups at both 1 hr and 1-month follow-up. In Group I, IOP increased at 1 hr postoperatively (P=0.023) and declined to preoperative levels at 1 month. In Group II, IOP increased at 1 hr postoperatively (P<0.001) and did not return to preoperative levels at 1-month follow-up (P=0.003). Likewise, macular thickness increased at 1 hr in both groups (P<0.001). In Group I, macular thickness decreased significantly to preoperative level at 1 month whereas in Group II, it remained significantly high at 1-month follow-up (P=0.006). There was no case with serious rise in IOP or cystoid macular edema.

Conclusion: Statistically significant increment in IOP and macular thickness occurs after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy which however may not necessitate the use of any medications.

Does Nd:YAG Capsulotomy Increase the Risk of Retinal Detachment?

Laser capsulotomy is accepted as a standard and effective treatment for posterior capsule opacification. It is generally believed that neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) capsulotomy is related to an increased risk of retinal detachment (RD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between Nd:YAG capsulotomy and risk for developing RD. A PubMed and Medline search was conducted using the terms "retinal detachment" and "Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy." Of the articles retrieved by this method, all publications in English and abstracts of non-English publications were reviewed. The literature analysis presented no convincing evidence supporting the association between Nd:YAG capsulotomy and increased risk for developing RD. The existing discrepancy between some studies might be related to inadequate group sizes, short observation period, and co-existing disorders. We also reviewed the possible risk factors for RD after Nd:YAG capsulotomy and found no association with preceding surgical approach, existing posterior vitreous detachment, and intraocular lens design. Myopic patients should be treated with caution, as it cannot be concluded that Nd:YAG capsulotomy does not increase RD rate in this cohort. Treatment energy should be as low as possible, as high energy levels and anterior hyaloid damage might increase the chance for RD development. Cataract surgery itself is a potential RD risk factor, particularly after intraoperative capsule complications.

Refractive Lens Exchange Combined with Primary Posterior Vitrectorhexis in Highly Myopic Patients

Purpose. To evaluate efficacy and safety of primary vitrectorhexis for posterior capsulotomy in highly myopic patients undergoing refractive lens exchange. Methods. The study is a prospective nonrandomized interventional study. The study comprised 60 eyes of 60 myopic patients. All patients underwent refractive lens exchange (RLE) and foldable IOL implantation combined with primary posterior capsulotomy. We used a 23-gauge vitrectomy probe for the creation of the posterior capsule opening. We followed the patients for one year. Results. During surgery, the IOLs remained well centered in the capsular bag after creation of the capsulotomy. Postoperatively, we did not report any complications related to lens centration or changes in the posterior capsulotomy size. No eye required YAG laser posterior capsulotomy and no cases of retinal detachment (RD) occurred during the follow-up period. Conclusion. Primary posterior vitrectorhexis during RLE is an efficient method in preventing the occurrence of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and the need for YAG laser posterior capsulotomy with its possible complications.

A new endocapsular open ring for prevention of anterior and posterior capsule opacification

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the functionality of a new design of a thick endocapsular open ring for prevention of anterior capsule opacification (ACO) and posterior capsule opacification (PCO).

SETTING

The Institute of Vision and Optics, University of Crete and University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece.

DESIGN

Prospective, interventional pilot study.

METHODS

Fifteen patients (17 eyes) underwent cataract surgery with phacoemulsification. During surgery, a thick endocapsular open ring (peripheral capsule reconstructor) was inserted into the capsular bag, prior to intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Six different models of IOL were implanted. Postoperatively, the degree of ACO and PCO was evaluated and described as none, mild, moderate, or severe.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 30±8.06 months (range: 12-36 months). At the last follow-up, mild PCO was observed in only three eyes and mild ACO in three patients. The centration of IOLs was good in all but one eye, which had a tilted IOL.

CONCLUSION

The results of this pilot study suggest that the implantation of a new design of thick endocapsular open ring is feasible and may contribute to the prevention of PCO and ACO after cataract surgery.

Customized Clinical Practice Guidelines for Management of Adult Cataract in Iran

Purpose:

To customize clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for cataract management in the Iranian population.

Methods:

First, four CPGs (American Academy of Ophthalmology 2006 and 2011, Royal College of Ophthalmologists 2010, and Canadian Ophthalmological Society 2008) were selected from a number of available CPGs in the literature for cataract management. All recommendations of these guidelines, together with their references, were studied. Each recommendation was summarized in 4 tables. The first table showed the recommendation itself in clinical question components format along with its level of evidence. The second table contained structured abstracts of supporting articles related to the clinical question with their levels of evidence. The third table included the customized recommendation of the internal group respecting its clinical advantage, cost, and complications. In the fourth table, the internal group their recommendations from 1 to 9 based on the customizing capability of the recommendation (applicability, acceptability, external validity). Finally, customized recommendations were sent one month prior to a consensus session to faculty members of all universities across the country asking for their comments on recommendations.

Results:

The agreed recommendations were accepted as conclusive while those with no agreement were discussed at the consensus session. Finally, all customized recommendations were codified as 80 recommendations along with their sources and levels of evidence for the Iranian population.

Conclusion:

Customization of CPGs for management of adult cataract for the Iranian population seems to be useful for standardization of referral, diagnosis and treatment of patients.

A new technique for Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

AIM

To investigate the effects of a new opening pattern in neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy on visual function.

METHODS

This technique was conducted along a circular pattern. The energy ranged between 0.8 and 1.2 mJ/pulse was consumed and mean total energy levels were 74±21 mJ (mean±standard deviation: SD, from 40 to 167) and laser shots aimed at 150 µm away behind a datum point and went along an imaginary line which extends 0.5 mm inside from optic margin and into the circular en bloc pattern. Vitreous stands were attached with fragment and then they were cut off by the laser after circular application. The circular fragment was completely separated from vitreous, and then this fragment was quickly sunk in intravitreal space.

RESULTS

The follow-up period ranges from at least a week to 40mo, making 15.8mo on average. The procedural outcome showed 96% (74 eyes out of the 77 eyes) enhancement in patients' visual acuity. Cystoid macular edema or retinal detachment was not observed in any of the patients during follow-up periods.

CONCLUSION

This new technique is expected to improve the weaknesses that the conventional procedures have by adding the process to cut off vitreous stands attached with the fragment by the laser to the circular application.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treatment guidelines

This paper outlines general guidelines following the initial diagnosis of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. These include preoperative evaluation, treatment, possible intra- and post-operative complications, retinal re-detachment, and all therapeutic options available for each case. Treatment of the traumatic retinal detachment is also described, due to its importance and peculiarities. Treatment or prophylactic guidelines are suggested for the different types of retinal detachment described. These are based on both the experience of the ophthalmologists that have participated in preparing the guidelines, and also on evidence-based grading linked to bibliographical sources. However, these guidelines should not be interpreted as being mandatory. Given that there is a wide spectrum of options for treatment of retinal detachment, the surgeons' experience with one or other surgical technique will be of utmost importance in obtaining the best surgical result. As guidelines, they are intended as an additional aid to the surgeon during the decision-making process, with the expectation that the final choice will still be left to the surgeon's judgment and past experience.

The incidence of retinal detachment after cataract surgery

Purpose:

To estimate the cumulative risk of retinal detachment (RD) after routine cataract surgery by phacoemulsification.

Setting:

Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark

Methods:

Retrospective cohort study based on 12.222 consecutive cataract surgeries in 7.856 patients using phacoemulsification over a 6 year period from 2000 to 2005. Cases with a diagnosis of RD were identified through the procedure-coding database at the Medical Registry of Aarhus University Hospital, which is based on Diagnosis Related Groups (DRG) and used to report to the Danish Patients Registry (LPR). For each case the age of the patient, gender, axial length, surgical complications, postoperative Nd:YAG capsulotomy and time interval between cataract surgery and RD were recorded.

Results:

The mean follow-up time was 64.8 months (range 26.2–97.6 months). Forty-eight (48) cases of RD were identified making an overall cumulative risk of 0.39%. As compared to the normal incidence of RD reported in the Scandinavian literature, the relative risk of RD following cataract surgery was about 2.3 times that of the natural incidence. As compared to the average cataract group, the group of RD following cataract surgery was characterized by a younger mean age (60.5 vs. 73.7 years), male gender (58.3% vs 34.8%), longer axial lengths (24.56 vs 23.25 mm) and a higher frequency of surgical complications (10.4% vs 1.8%) (p<0.001) but not a higher frequency of Nd:YAG capsulotomy (p>0.05),

Conclusions:

The cumulative risk of RD after lens surgery was about 2.3 times the natural incidence but seems to be lower than that of older reports.

Synopsis:

Retinal detachment following cataract surgery is associated with young age, male gender, long axial lengths and surgical complications. The cumulative risk of RD after lens surgery was about 2.3 times the natural.

Phacoemulsification after retinal detachment surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of phacoemulsification in eyes that had previous retinal detachment (RD) surgery.

SETTING

Hayashi Eye Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan.

METHODS

Ninety-six eyes of 90 consecutive patients who had phacoemulsification after previous RD surgery (RD group) were included. Fifty-one fellow eyes that had not had RD surgery but did have phacoemulsification served as controls (control group). Recurrence of RD, visual acuity, complications, and the neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy rate were examined.

RESULTS

Recurrent RD after phacoemulsification occurred in 2 eyes (2.1%) in the RD group. Three eyes (5.9%) in the control group developed RD postoperatively. The incidence of RD was not significantly different between the 2 groups (P =.3416). The mean final visual acuity in the RD group was 20/30, significantly worse than in the control group (P =.0099). Posterior capsule opacification developed in 29 eyes (30.2%) in the RD group and 11 eyes (21.6%) in the control group; the difference between the groups was not significant. Eighteen eyes (43.9%) that had implantation of a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) intraocular lens (IOL) and 7 eyes (6.6%) that received an acrylic IOL had an Nd:YAG capsulotomy; the capsulotomy rate was significantly higher in eyes with a PMMA IOL than in eyes with an acrylic IOL (P<.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of recurrent RD after phacoemulsification in eyes that had previous RD surgery was similar to that of new occurrence of RD in fellow eyes without RD before phacoemulsification. Because the Nd:YAG capsulotomy rate was lower in eyes with acrylic IOLs than in eyes with PMMA IOLs, acrylic IOLs are recommended for eyes at high risk for RD.

Does a small central Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy improve peripheral fundal visualisation for the vitreoretinal surgeon?

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the effect of Nd:YAG capsulotomy for posterior capsular opacification (PCO) on visualisation of the peripheral fundus with scleral indentation.

METHODS

Patients undergoing Nd:YAG capsulotomy for PCO were examined pre- and four weeks post- Nd:YAG capsulotomy. In order to give a quantitative measure of visualisation of the peripheral retina, a novel scalar measurement was developed. Changes in the degree of visualisation following Nd:YAG capsulotomy were calculated.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in fundal visualisation of the retinal periphery with scleral indentation following Nd:YAG capsulotomy (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Peripheral fundal visualisation with scleral indentation improves following a small central Nd:YAG capsulotomy. This finding is important in relation to the detection of peripheral pseudophakic retinal breaks, particularly in those patients deemed at high risk following Nd:YAG capsulotomy.

Retinal breaks and detachment after neodymium:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

PURPOSE

To determine the 5-year incidence of retinal breaks and retinal detachment (RD) after neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy and the prophylactic treatment of perioperative retinal breaks.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.

METHODS

This study design was stage 2 of a prospective nonrandomized interventional case series. Of 341 patients (350 eyes) referred for a first Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy between October 1994 and February 1996, 211 (220 eyes) were examined for retinal breaks before and after capsulotomy (stage 1 of study). Asymptomatic breaks were prophylactically photocoagulated. Of the 211 patients, 106 (113 eyes) were examined at stage 2 a median of 4.9 years after Nd:YAG capsulotomy. The charts of all 341 patients were reviewed for development of RD and retinal breaks. The proportion of patients developing RD was estimated by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and the risk for RD was modeled by Cox proportional hazard regression.

RESULTS

By 5 years, the overall cumulative proportion of RD in the 341 patients was 2.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-4.0). Of the 211 eyes enrolled in stage 1, 2 (1.2%) developed an RD (95% CI, 0.3-4.7). Of 51 fellow eyes that had a capsulotomy and 120 eyes that had a capsulotomy but were not enrolled in stage 1 and were not prophylactically treated, RD occurred in 6 eyes (5.8%; 95% CI, 2.6-13). By univariate Cox regression, the axial length, whether modeled as a continuous variable (hazard ratio [HR] 1.51 for each millimeter increase) or categorized using 25.0 mm as a cutoff (HR 11.1), had the strongest association with RD after Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy (P =.0002 and P =.0016, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to the capsulotomy, other known risk factors predicted RD after Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. Close follow-up and prophylactic photocoagulation of preexisting retinal breaks are worth considering, especially in high-risk eyes.

Clear lens extraction for the correction of high myopia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the postoperative outcomes and intraoperative and postoperative complications of clear lens extraction (CLE) with posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in highly myopic eyes.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred seven patients (190 eyes) who had undergone CLE with posterior chamber IOL implantation and who had been observed for at least 3 years after surgery.

METHODS

Medical records of patients who had undergone CLE with posterior chamber IOL implantation to treat high myopia (axial length >26.00 mm) over 7 years (January 1990 to December 1996) were reviewed. Visual acuity and refractive error were assessed before and after surgery, and perioperative, intraoperative, and postoperative complications were recorded.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Axial length, preoperative and final best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), preoperative and postoperative spherical equivalent (SE), argon laser treatments, surgical complications, neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy, retinal detachment (RD), time from surgery or Nd:YAG capsulotomy to RD, subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV), and follow-up period.

RESULTS

The mean postoperative follow-up period was 4.78 years (range, 3.10-8.03 years). Final BSCVA was better than preoperative BSCVA in 159 eyes (83.68%), equal in 24 eyes (12.63%), and worse in 7 eyes (3.68%). Postoperative BSCVA was 20/40 or better in 136 eyes (71.60%) vs. 52 eyes (27.36%) before surgery (P<0.001). The mean final postoperative SE was -1.22 diopters. The risk of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was 77.89%. The incidence of RD was 2.10%; retinal reattachment was achieved in all cases, and none of these eyes had worse final BSCVA than before surgery. Subfoveal CNV developed in 4 eyes (2.10%) of 3 patients; all of these eyes presented with a macular lacquer crack.

CONCLUSIONS

Clear lens extraction with posterior chamber IOL implantation has good outcomes with acceptable predictability and improvement in best-corrected visual acuity. During follow-up, patients tended to remain stable, and the risk of retinal detachment was low. We attribute our favorable results to careful patient selection and follow-up.

Cataract surgery as a risk factor for retinal detachment in very highly myopic eyes

PURPOSE

To evaluate the incidence of retinal detachment (RD) after cataract surgery performed by phacoemulsification in very highly myopic eyes.

DESIGN

Retrospective, paired-eye, case-control trial.

PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTION

We assessed the development of RD in 930 eyes from 930 subjects (mean age = 62.5 +/- 8.5 years) affected by very high myopia (between -15 and -30 diopters) undergoing cataract surgery after uncomplicated phacoemulsification (cataract-subjected [CS] eyes). Fellow eyes served as controls. Follow-up was 36 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Detachment of the retina.

RESULTS

Retinal detachment was observed in 8.0% of CS eyes compared with 1.2% of control eyes (P<0.01, chi-square test). In CS eyes, posterior RD was most common (52.7% of eyes with RD). In control eyes, peripheral detachments with or without macular involvement were most common (47.3% of eyes with RD).

CONCLUSION

Cataract surgery, despite the use of a safe technique such as phacoemulsification, increases the risk of RD development in very highly myopic eyes.

Use of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy

Surgery for cataract removal has become successively refined such that posterior capsular opacification is the most common problem presenting after modern cataract extraction. Various techniques and treatments exist to manage patients with posterior capsular opacification using Nd:YAG capsulotomy. There are many possible variations in initial assessment, pre-laser treatments, laser techniques, and follow-up routines. The literature on the use of Nd:YAG laser for capsulotomy was reviewed and interpreted. This article presents the currently available knowledge in a format that allows the practitioner to tailor an evidence-based protocol for treating patients with symptomatic posterior capsule opacification.

Pseudophakic retinal detachment

Pseudophakic retinal detachment is a rare, but potentially serious, complication of cataract surgery. The incidence of pseudophakic retinal detachment following current surgical techniques of cataract extraction, including extracapsular cataract extraction by nuclear expression and phacoemulsification, is lower than that found after intracapsular cataract extraction. The risk of pseudophakic retinal detachment appears to be increased in myopic patients, in those patients in whom vitreous loss had occurred at the time of cataract surgery, and in patients undergoing Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy. Most cases present to the clinician when the macula is already detached and the central vision is affected. When evaluating patients with pseudophakic retinal detachment, the fundal view is often impaired by anterior or posterior capsular opacification, reflections related to the intraocular lens, or poor mydriasis. Scleral buckling, pneumatic retinopexy, and primary pars plana vitrectomy, with or without combined scleral buckling, are the surgical techniques used to treat pseudophakic retinal detachment. Anatomical success rates are high after vitreo-retinal surgery for pseudophakic retinal detachment, although a smaller proportion of patients recover good vision following surgery.

Phacoemulsification without intraocular lens implantation in patients with high myopia: long-term results

PURPOSE

To estimate the cumulative incidence of postoperative retinal detachment (RD), rhegmatogenous retinal lesions requiring argon laser treatments, anterior (ACO) and posterior (PCO) capsule opacification, and neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy in patients with high myopia who had phacoemulsification without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology and Neurosurgery, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.

METHODS

Seventy-three eyes of 57 patients with high myopia who had phacoemulsification without IOL implantation from 1993 to 1996 were retrospectively reviewed. The mean postoperative follow-up was 62.3 months and the mean axial length, 30.22 mm (range 29.10 to 33.70 mm). The incidence of RD and preoperative and postoperative prophylactic argon laser photocoagulation for rhegmatogenous retinal lesions were assessed. Between 1997 and 2000, ACO was evaluated subjectively and PCO was evaluated using the EPCO photographic image-analysis system. The incidence of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was noted.

RESULTS

Argon laser photocoagulation was performed in 8 eyes (10.9%) preoperatively and 3 eyes (4.1%) postoperatively. One RD (1.3%) was observed 26 months after surgery; no preoperative or postoperative prophylactic argon laser photocoagulation or Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was performed in this eye. At 1 year, 49 eyes (67.1%) had mild ACO and 24 (32.8%) had anterior capsule fibrosis. The data did not change during subsequent follow-up visits. At 6 years, the mean PCO grade was 1.109 (range 0.972 to 2.931); an Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was performed in 12 eyes (16.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with other studies that evaluated the outcomes of highly myopic patients who had cataract surgery with posterior chamber IOL implantation, our patients, who did not have IOL implantation, had a lower incidence of postoperative rhegmatogenous retinal lesions requiring argon laser treatments and a similar incidence of postoperative RD and visually significant PCO.

Posterior vitreous detachment after neodymium:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

PURPOSE

To determine whether retinal detachment (RD) after neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy is due to a greater incidence of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) than in controls and whether vitreous status at the time of capsulotomy is useful in predicting the risk for RD.

SETTING

Teaching hospital ophthalmology service.

METHODS

Patients having Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy after uneventful cataract surgery (treatment group) were prospectively studied. Fellow eyes that had extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation but no Nd:YAG capsulotomy (no-laser group) formed 1 control group, and eyes that had no cataract surgery (phakic group) formed a second control group. The treatment group comprised 322 eyes; the no-laser group, 97; and the phakic group, 142. Dilated fundus and vitreous examinations were performed at baseline (before Nd:YAG capsulotomy) and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

At baseline, the prevalence of PVD was similar in the treatment and no-laser groups (61.8% and 63.9%, respectively; P=.2014) but was significantly lower in the phakic group (50.7%; P=.0151). There was no significant difference among the groups in the development of PVD in eyes with attached vitreous at baseline (17.9%, treatment group; 11.4%, no-laser group; 17.1%, phakic group) (P=.6588).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of PVD was significantly higher in eyes after ECCE and IOL implantation than in phakic eyes independent of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. Capsulotomy was not associated with a significantly higher incidence of new PVD; therefore, the presence or absence of PVD at the time of capsulotomy is not helpful in assessing the risk for RD in the first year after laser treatment.

Pseudophakic retinal detachment after uneventful phacoemulsification and subsequent neodymium: YAG capsulotomy for capsule opacification

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of retinal detachment (RD) after neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and define the characteristics of this type of RD.

SETTING

A private practice, with statistical evaluation at a university department.

METHODS

Five hundred twenty-six consecutive eyes that had Nd:YAG capsulotomy because of visually disturbing PCO were followed prospectively for up to 52 months (median 21 months) to determine the incidence of RD. The median age of the 142 men and 320 women was 76 years and the median axial length, 23.3 mm (range 20.5 to 31.3 mm). Before the capsulotomy, all eyes had uneventful phacoemulsification with implantation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL). Eyes with additional surgical procedures or with panretinal laser photocoagulation were excluded. Eyes in which a retinal hole had been treated before Nd:YAG (n = 4) were included. The fundus was examined by binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy with a 2.2 diopter Volk lens in full mydriasis. If necessary, an examination with a 3-mirror lens was done.

RESULTS

The incidence of RD was 0% (0/483; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.0%-0.8%) at 6 months, 0% (0/407; 95% CI, 0.0%-0.9%) at 12 months, and 0.5% (1/213; 95% CI, 0.0%-2.6%) at 24 months. Twenty-one months after Nd:YAG capsulotomy, 1 eye developed an RD that occurred as the result of a horseshoe tear that reopened. The tear, which formed 7 months after phacoemulsification and PC IOL implantation and 6 years before Nd:YAG capsulotomy, had been immediately treated with argon laser photocoagulation. Excluding the 4 eyes with preexisting tears, presumably sealed retinal holes, the incidence at 24 months was 0% (0/212; 95% CI, 0.0%-1.7%). No other eye developed RD over the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Retinal detachment after Nd:YAG capsulotomy for PCO was rare in eyes that had previous uneventful phacoemulsification and PC IOL implantation. The exact relationship between the 2 events remains to be established.

Peeling the fibrous membrane from the anterior capsule for capsulorhexis contraction after phacoemulsification in aphakic patients

We report a method for peeling the fibrous membrane from the anterior capsule without damaging the posterior capsule in patients with capsule contraction syndrome after cataract surgery. We also report 2 cases in which the technique was successfully used.

Retinal breaks before and after neodymium:YAG posterior capsulotomy

PURPOSE

To determine the frequency of asymptomatic retinal breaks before and after neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.

METHODS

Of 350 consecutive patients referred for their first laser Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy, 235 eligible eyes were enrolled and 220 eyes completed the study. A vitreoretinal surgeon looked for retinal breaks using binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy with scleral indentation. The eyes were examined 1 week before and 1 hour and 1 month after the posterior capsulotomy. The number, type, and location of retinal breaks were recorded.

RESULTS

The median age of eligible patients who did not participate in the study was higher than that of enrolled patients (79.6 versus 74.4 years; P =.0005). The mean axial length, median time from cataract surgery, and the course of cataract surgery were comparable in both groups. Before the posterior capsulotomy, an untreated retinal break was diagnosed in 4 of the 235 eyes (1.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0 to 4) scheduled for surgery and an undiagnosed retinal detachment was present in 2 additional eyes (0.9%; 95% CI 0 to 3). An asymptomatic retinal break was also present in 4 fellow eyes (1.7%, 95% CI 0 to 4). No new breaks developed during Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy using a median total energy of 51 mJ (range 10 to 901 mJ) and a median number of 22 applications (range 4 to 341 applications) and resulting in an opening with a median largest diameter of 3.4 mm (range 2.0 to 4.6 mm). In 1 treated eye (0.4%; 95% CI 0 to 2), a new retinal break had developed by 1 month postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

The observed 2.1% frequency of asymptomatic retinal breaks that had escaped the attention of the referring ophthalmologist or had developed by 1 month after Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy can be contrasted with the 0.5% to 2.0% frequency of retinal detachment reported in the literature. However, it is not known which proportion of such asymptomatic breaks, if any, will progress to detachment after Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy.

Update on a long-term, prospective study of capsulotomy and retinal detachment rates after cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the retinal detachment risks and neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) capsulotomy rates associated with different cataract approaches and intraocular lens (IOL) styles in a long-term,prospective clinical study.

SETTING

Clinical practice of 1 ophthalmologist, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.

METHODS

Prospectively studied were surgical approach, date, and complications; IOL type; axial length; patient age and sex; Nd:YAG capsulotomy and date; and retinal detachment and date.

RESULTS

Phacoemulsification had a lower risk of retinal detachment than intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE) (0.4% versus 5.4%; P <.001) and extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) (0.4% versus 1.6%; P =. 002). Although retinal detachment was significantly associated with Nd:YAG for ECCE (3.1% versus 1.0%; P =.01), no patient in the phacoemulsification group had a retinal detachment after an Nd:YAG treatment. Retinal detachment was strongly associated with axial length of 24.0 mm and greater (P <.001), age of 60 years or less if axial length was 24.0 mm or greater (for ECCE, P =.001; for phacoemulsification, P =.01) and sex; that is, male (for ECCE, P =. 04; for phacoemulsification, P =.02). Regarding IOL styles the Surgidev B20/20 (P <.001) and AcrySof MA60 (P <.001) had significantly lower Nd:YAG rates, while the Cilco UPB 320 GS had a significantly higher Nd:YAG rate (P <.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Cataract surgical approach and IOL style significantly affect Nd:YAG and retinal detachment rates. Being a man, being 60 years or younger, and especially having an axial length of 24.0 mm or greater were associated with detachment. Some Nd:YAG approaches may not put the patient at increased risk for retinal detachment.

Neodymium:YAG laser posterior capsulotomies performed by residents at a Veterans Administration Hospital

PURPOSE

To assess the initial efficacy of neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomies performed by residents at a teaching institution and to evaluate the associated complications over an extended follow-up.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Edward Hines, Jr. Veterans Administration Hospital, Hines, Illinois, USA.

METHODS

This retrospective noncomparative case review comprised 212 pseudophakic eyes having Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomies from April 1992 through March 1995. Evaluated were postoperative changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) elevations, and complications related to the procedure.

RESULTS

In all 212 eyes, Snellen visual acuity was obtained at least 1 week after the capsulotomy. The BCVA in 96 eyes (45.3%) improved by 3 or more lines, in 43 (20.3%) by 2 lines, and in 51 (24.1%) by 1 line. Nineteen eyes (9.0%) did not improve by 1 or more lines, and 3 eyes (1.4%) had decreased Snellen acuity. All but 4 eyes with less than 1 line of improvement had underlying ocular pathology or a previous incomplete capsulotomy. For evaluation of postoperative complications, long-term follow-up was available for 133 of 212 eyes (62.7%). The mean follow-up for this group was 3.18 years. Postoperative complications were found in 14 of these eyes (10.5%). Nine (6.8%) had a rise in IOP greater than 10 mm Hg after the capsulotomy. One eye (0.8%) developed a persistent iritis, 2 (1.5%) had vitreous prolapse into the anterior chamber, and 2 (1.5%) developed rhegmatogenous retinal detachments.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative Snellen acuity results and complication rates compare favorably with those in previous studies. The results indicate that Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomies performed by residents with attending supervision are safe, effective, and carry a low associated complication rate over a long follow-up.

Retinal detachment in pseudophakic eyes with and without Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether the characteristics of pseudophakic retinal detachment (RD) differ in eyes with and without a neodymium (Nd):YAG laser capsulotomy to identify features that might help to treat capsulotomy patients better.

DESIGN

The study design was a retrospective cohort study of 129 consecutive eyes, 61 with a capsulotomy and 68 control eyes with an intact posterior capsule, in which a primary rhegmatogenous RD developed after a strictly uncomplicated extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation.

SETTING

The study was conducted in a primary referral center.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Number, type, and location of retinal breaks and type and extent of RD were measured.

RESULTS

Risk factors predisposing to RD did not differ between the capsulotomy and control group. The median interval from cataract surgery to RD was expectedly longer in the capsulotomy group (4.1 years vs. 1.5 years, P < 0.001). The mean number of retinal breaks was larger in the capsulotomy group (1.7 vs. 1.1, P = 0.05), especially in upper quadrants (82 of 103 vs. 48 of 77, P = 0.024). Capsulotomy eyes also had a trend to have more atrophic holes that caused detachment relative to horseshoe breaks (34 of 103 vs. 15 of 77, P = 0.062). The type and extent of RD were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study suggests that atrophic holes, particularly in the superior quadrants, may lead to RD preferentially after posterior capsulotomy. Early identification and treatment of such breaks might decrease the number of pseudophakic detachments after capsulotomy.

Clear lens extraction and implantation of negative-power posterior chamber intraocular lenses to correct extreme myopia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness, predictability, and safety of clear lens extraction to correct extreme myopia.

SETTING

Clinica de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Madrid, Spain.

METHODS

This retrospective study comprised 26 eyes of 17 highly myopic patients who had clear lens extraction and implantation of a negative-power posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL power was calculated using the SRK/T formula. Analyzed were visual and refractive results and intraoperative and postoperative complications. Follow-up was at least 12 months in all cases.

RESULTS

Uncorrected visual acuity improved in all cases, with 80.77% of eyes achieving 20/100 or better and 42.30%, 20/40 or better. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) improved in 23 eyes (88.46%). The percentage of eyes achieving a BSCVA of 20/100 or better increased from 73.07% preoperatively to 92.30% postoperatively and the percentage achieving 20/40 or better, from 23.07 to 73.07%. Of the 26 eyes, 76.91% were within 1.00 diopter (D) of refractive error and 96.16% were within 2.00 D. No intraoperative complications occurred. Although postoperatively 3 eyes (11.53%) developed choroidal detachment and 5 (19.23%) had an intraocular pressure greater than 25 mm Hg, all had a favorable outcome. Four eyes (15.38%) developed posterior capsule opacification and had a neodymium:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy 6 months postoperatively. No retinal detachments were observed.

CONCLUSION

Clear lens extraction with negative-power IOL implantation using the SRK/T formula had good effectiveness, acceptable predictability, and a low morbidity in eyes with extreme myopia over a short follow-up. A longer follow-up with more cases is needed to assess the safety of the procedure.

A systematic overview of the incidence of posterior capsule opacification

OBJECTIVE

Reported rates of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) vary widely and are based on various definitions of PCO, varying lengths and intervals of follow-up, and the use of different surgical techniques, intraocular lens (i.o.l.) designs, and methods of IOL implantation. This study was designed to obtain a more precise overall estimate of the incidence of PCO and to explore factors that might influence the rate of PCO development.

DESIGN

A meta-analysis.

METHODS

Published articles were selected for study based on a computerized MEDLINE search of the literature and a manual search of the bibliographies of relevant articles. Articles meeting selected inclusion criteria were reviewed systematically, and the reported data were abstracted and synthesized using the statistical techniques of meta-analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Pooled estimates of the proportion of eyes developing PCO at three postoperative timepoints--1 year, 3 years, and 5 years--were measured.

RESULTS

There is significant heterogeneity among published rates of PCO. The overall pooled estimates (95% confidence limits) of the incidence of PCO were 11.8% (9.3%-14.3%) at 1 year, 20.7% (16.6%-24.9%) at 3 years, and 28.4% (18.4%-38.4%) at 5 years after surgery. There is no evidence of a significant decline in PCO incidence during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Visually significant PCO develops in more than 25% of patients undergoing standard extracapsular cataract extraction or phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation over the first 5 years after surgery. Patient characteristics, surgical techniques, and differences in research design and reporting may account for some of the variability in reported rates. However, no specific factors were identified in the authors' analysis. More precise estimates of incidence and identification of risk factors for PCO will depend on the development of a standardized measurement of PCO and wider adoption of more rigorous study methodology.

Retinal detachment after cataract extraction in myopic eyes

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence of retinal detachment (RD) after cataract extraction in people 40 years of age or older with axial myopia (i.e., axial length > or = 25.5 mm).

SETTING

Fifteen Danish eye clinics.

METHODS

Two hundred forty-five eyes had cataract extraction performed at 15 eye clinics; 237 eyes had extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and 8 eyes, intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE). Postoperative data were reported by the practicing ophthalmologists. Mean follow-up was 27 months (range 14 to 32 months).

RESULTS

Five RDs occurred in the 245 eyes (2.0%). Excluding the ICCE cases and the two cases of combined cornea transplantation and ECCE, RD occurred in 4 of the 235 eyes that had ECCE (1.7%). The incidence after ECCE with posterior chamber lens implantation was 1.4%. Complete postoperative status was reported on 158 eyes. Forty-eight eyes (30.4%) had a neodymium:YAG capsulotomy and 3 (6.0%) developed an RD 1, 3.5, and 21 months after the capsulotomy.

CONCLUSION

The RD incidence after ECCE with posterior chamber lens implantation was low but higher than that in unselected populations. The incidence increased after laser capsulotomy.

Retinal detachment following phacoemulsification in highly myopic cataract patients

PURPOSE

To assess whether modern, small incision phacoemulsification techniques significantly reduce the retinal detachment (RD) risk in highly myopic patients who have visually significant cataracts.

SETTING

University-associated ophthalmology practice.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 80 eyes in 61 patients with preoperative myopia of 7.00 diopters (D) or more. Sixty-four eyes had an axial length of 25.0 mm or greater. All surgery was performed superiorly using a frown-shaped, self-sealing, scleral tunnel. The incision size ranged from 3.0 to 5.0 mm. Capsulorhexis was performed and then four-quadrant cracking phacoemulsification. The posterior capsule was routinely polished. A posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) was implanted in the capsular bag in all cases.

RESULTS

No RDs occurred during the mean follow-up of 43 months (range 9 to 77 months) or the mean follow-up after neodymium:YAG capsulotomy of 20 months. No intraoperative complications occurred. Seventy-one of 80 eyes (89%) achieved best spectacle-corrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better.

CONCLUSIONS

Retinal detachments following modern cataract surgery in high myopia are much less common than previously reported. We attribute this to small incision size, continued maintenance of the anterior chamber, posterior chamber IOL implantation, and lack of intraoperative complications.

Pseudophakic retinal detachment in high axial myopia

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of extracapsular cataract surgery with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy on the rate of retinal detachment (RD) in myopic eyes with an axial length of 27 mm or more.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, University of Giessen, Germany.

METHODS

This retrospective, nonrandomized study comprised the records of 386 consecutive surgical procedures in 275 patients performed between December 1985 and December 1993. In May 1994, all patients were asked by a mailed questionnaire whether they had had an RD in either eye or laser treatment for posterior capsule opacification. Responses from 190 patients concerning 253 surgical procedures were evaluated.

RESULTS

The pseudophakic RD rate was 0.8% (two cases). One patient developed aphakic RD after IOL explanation. One expulsive choroidal hemorrhage occurred during secondary IOL implantation. Four eyes (1.6%) had vitreous loss, and 74 eyes (29.2%) had an Nd:YAG capsulotomy. Mean axial length was 29.2 mm +/- 1.71 (SD), mean follow-up was 3.8 +/- 2 years, and mean age at surgery was 69.8 +/- 12 years.

CONCLUSION

Pseudophakia with no other risk factor posed little additional risk for RD in eyes with high axial myopia; however, Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy was a risk factor for pseudophakic RD. Complicated surgery, such as a secondary procedure or vitreous loss, and young age were major causative factors.

Secondary closure of posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis

PURPOSE

To examine the hypothesis that removing the center of the posterior capsule would prevent posterior capsular opacification (PCO).

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Antwerp, Belgium.

METHODS

A posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC) was done before intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in eyes at risk for PCO (uveitic, young adult), retinal detachment after neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy (highly myopic) or for cystoid macular edema (uveitic, diabetic) and in eyes in which the posterior capsule was opaque intraoperatively. The 51 eyes of 40 patients had a follow-up ranging from 6 months to 2 years.

RESULTS

Four eyes (8%) developed partial closure of the posterior CCC without vision impairment; 6 eyes (12%) had total closure, of which 2 (4%) had a loss of two or more Snellen lines necessitating an Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy.

CONCLUSION

Young adult eyes and eyes with underlying diabetic retinopathy or uveitis are at risk for total closure of the posterior CCC. Only young adult eyes required Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy after the posterior CCC.