Ultrasound biomicroscopy study of the Verisyse aphakic intraocular lens combined with penetrating keratoplasty in pseudophakic bullous keratopathy

Surgical management of aphakia

Despite the safety and efficacy of cataract surgery, intraoperative complications can hamper the ability to place an intraocular lens in the capsular bag. With vast numbers of cataract surgeries performed daily, complications occur often enough that every ophthalmologist should be equipped with techniques to manage aphakia. Medical management of aphakia used to be commonplace but these techniques have their disadvantages including thick bulky lenses, poor cosmesis, and aniseikonia. Surgical management of aphakia overcomes these disadvantages and offers patients the possibility of a spectacle and contact lens-free lifestyle. This article reviews the various options of surgical management of aphakia and their advantages and disadvantages. Comparison of outcomes between techniques and a protocol for deciding between techniques is presented.

The influence of the Artisan-Verisyse position on the postoperative outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Iris-fixated intraocular lens (IOL) is considered a safe and effective option for the correction of aphakia in patients with insufficient capsular support. This systematic review aims to summarize the existing evidence about the Artisan/Verisyse IOLs and to assess the influence of the IOL position on the postoperative outcomes. Three different databases were used for this systematic review and metaanalysis (PubMED, Scopus, and Embase). We searched for case series or clinical trials comparing the prepupillary versus retropupillary Artisan/Verisyse implantation. The statistical analysis was performed with the programming language R (version 3.6.1 2019-07-05). The number of articles included in the meta-analysis was six, with 506 eyes included in total. We found no significant differences in postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) (0.309 [0.089-0.528] vs. 0.32 [0.2-0.44]), spherical equivalent (SE) (0.0153 D [-0.362 to 0.393] vs. -0.329 D [-0.62 to - 0.038]), and central corneal cell density (CECD) (1669.85 cells [1605.949-2150.937] vs. 1635.99 cells [1413.64-1858.363]) between the prepupillary and the retropupillary implantation, respectively. There were no significant differences in the rates of cystoid macular edema (CME; 7.70% vs. 9.8%), pupil deformation (4.5% vs. 5.4% retropupillary), or IOL luxation (2.3% and 2.2%). We found little influence of the IOL position in the postoperative analyzed outcomes. Thus, the implant position should be based on the surgeon's technical experience. Double-blind randomized prospective studies would improve the available evidence on the best implant position for the Artisan/Verisyse IOL.

Optical Coherence Tomography Position Analysis of Retropupillary Iris-Fixated Intraocular Lens in Iris Tissue

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate a micrometer-accurate analysis of the retropupillary Verisyse® intraocular lens (IOL) (Ophtec, Groningen NL; Santa Ana, USA) enclavation in the iris tissue.

Methods

A retrospective consecutive case series was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Mainz. Patients with an optical coherence tomography (Spectralis®, Heidelberg Engineering®; Heidelberg, Germany) examination after retropupillary Verisyse® IOL implantation were included retrospectively. The enclavation geometry was measured using the Eye-Explorer® from Heidelberg Engineering® (Heidelberg, Germany). Seventeen measuring positions were determined nasally and temporally at the corresponding enclavation points.

Results

72 eyes of 67 patients after implantation of a retropupillary Verisyse® IOL were analyzed. The average age was 68 ± 17.2 years (63% female; 38% male). The analysis of the position of the Verisyse® IOL showed highly homogeneous data in all measured points. The depth of the anterior chamber showed a positive correlation with width of the posterior deflection of the iris tissue behind the enclavation (Pearson r: 0.321, p=0.041). The offset of the haptics showed greater deviations, and the lens diopter implanted was higher (r = 0.337, p=0.007).

Conclusion

This is the first study that analysis the exact enclavation of retropupillary implanted Verisyse® IOL. It provides new information about the intrastromal course of the haptics in the iris tissue. It could be shown that the haptics do not run parallel in the iris tissue, but are anchored in the iris tissue with an average offset of 95 µm. This rebuts previous assumptions about the intrastromal course and provides new information.

Tilt and decentration of posterior and anterior iris-claw intraocular lenses: a pilot study using anterior segment optical coherence tomography

BACKGROUND

Information on the centration and tilt of iris-claw intraocular lenses (IC-IOLs) is limited. In this study, we tested the capacity of an anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) instrument to measure decentration and tilt of anterior and posterior IC-IOLs through an integrated software.

METHODS

The present observational, cross-sectional study was conducted at University Eye Clinic of Parma (Parma, Italy). The CASIA2 swept-source AS-OCT (Tomey Corp.) was used to measure the tilt and decentration of posterior and anterior IC-IOLs in patients implanted at least 6 months in advance. After failure with full-automation, semi-manual IOL tracing was applied. In-the-bag (IB) contralateral IOLs, when present, were measured automatically. The Bland-Altman method was used to evaluate the agreement between repeated measurements (2 images for each study eye). The amount and direction of tilt and decentration were recorded and plotted into polar charts for evaluation.

RESULTS

A total of 21 patients were included: 14 with posterior and 7 with anterior IC-IOL fixation. In 17 eyes (81%), the AS-OCT provided a repeatable measurement of tilt and decentration. All contralateral eyes with IB IOL were automatically measured. The median decentration was 0.67 mm, 0.24 mm, and 0.24 mm in posterior IC-IOLs, anterior IC-IOLs, and IB IOLs group, respectively. The median tilt was 5.0°, 5.6°, and 5.6° for posterior IC-IOLs, anterior IC-IOLs, and IB IOLs, respectively. Tilt direction was mainly temporal, while decentration was inferior-temporal with posterior IC-IOLs and scattered with anterior IC-IOLs and IB IOLs.

CONCLUSIONS

The semi-manual tracing function of the CASIA2 AS-OCT provides repeatable and affordable measurements of the decentration and tilt of IC-IOLs in both the anterior and posterior chamber. Data from the former group were similar to the IB group.

Anterior Versus Retropupillary Iris-Claw Intraocular Lens: Indications, Visual Outcome and Postoperative Complications

Introduction

In cases of inadequate capsular support for intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, iris-claw IOL is a practical option. Iris-claw IOL can be implanted anteriorly or retropupillary. In this study, we compare the outcome of implantation of iris-claw IOL between anterior and retropupillary locations.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the characteristics and outcomes of patients who underwent iris-claw “Artisan^®” intraocular lens implantation (IOL) during the period of January 2014 to July 2020. The study population included all patients who underwent iris-claw IOL implantation, whether as a primary or secondary implantation, regardless of the causative indication. The study population was categorized by location of implantation and indication. The outcome was compared by visual acuity and postoperative complications.

Results

In this study, 171 eyes of 151 patients were included. Iris-claw IOL was implanted anteriorly in 110 (64.3%) eyes. The most common indication for iris-claw IOL was complicated cataract surgery, followed by ectopia lentis and by trauma. Patients with retropupillary position achieved better visual outcome whatever the causative indication. Anterior iris-claw IOL patients had more high intraocular pressure readings and macular edema.

Conclusions

This study revealed that retropupillary iris-claw IOL may achieve better visual outcome without significant postoperative complications. Further prospective studies and trials on larger sample sizes are needed.

Surgical Management of Paediatric Aphakia in the Absence of Sufficient Capsular Support

There are several available options for the demanding surgical correction of paediatric aphakia without sufficient capsular support. The literature suggests the implantation of a transscleral fixated posterior chamber-intraocular lens (PCIOL), an intrascleral fixated PCIOL, an iris-sutured intraocular lens (IOL), or an anterior chamber iris-claw IOL. We searched for reports on the management of paediatric aphakia in case of inadequate capsular support that delineated the diverse surgical approaches and their postoperative results. Analysis demonstrated that different complications can be encountered depending on IOL placement technique, such as suture rupture, IOL dislocation, secondary glaucoma, endophthalmitis, vitreous hemorrhage, and endothelial cell loss. However, it was shown that various IOL designs have similar visual outcomes. Taking into consideration the advantages and disadvantages of each surgical technique, ophthalmic surgeons can determine the safest and most efficient approach for paediatric aphakic patients.

Intraocular lens implantation in the absence of capsular support: scleral-fixated vs retropupillary iris-claw intraocular lenses

Cataract surgery via phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) placement in the capsular bag is the gold standard in the presence of adequate capsular support. However, when capsule and/or zonular fibers are weak or absent, alternate fixation strategies are required. Common alternative options include retropupillary iris-claw IOLs (RP-IC IOLs) and scleral-fixated IOLs (SF IOLs). In the present review of 87 articles with 2174 eyes implanted with RP-IC IOLs and 2980 eyes with SF IOLs, we discuss the published literature with respect to safety and efficacy. Although the studies reporting outcomes of these IOLs have been performed in patients with different concomitant conditions, visual and refractive outcomes were found to be comparable between RP-IC IOLs and SF IOLs. RP-IC IOL implantation seemed to provide equivalent or a potentially lower rate of complications than SF IOL implantation. Data from the literature also suggest that the surgical technique of RP-IC IOL implantation is relatively simpler with correspondingly shorter surgical times.

Long-term surgical outcomes of primary retropupillary iris claw intraocular lens implantation for the treatment of intraocular lens dislocation

We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of primary retropupillary iris claw intraocular lens (R-IOL) implantation in patients with complete intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation. In this single-center retrospective case series, we reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent R-IOL implantation surgery with pars plana vitrectomy for the treatment of IOL dislocation between September 2014 and July 2019. The primary outcome was change in visual acuity (VA) up to 24 months postoperatively. The secondary outcomes included changes in intraocular pressure (IOP), refractive errors, and endothelial cell count (ECC) over the same period. Data of 103 eyes (98 patients) were analyzed. The mean uncorrected VA was significantly improved at one month postoperatively (− 0.69 logMAR, P < 0.001), compared to the preoperative value. IOP (− 2.3 mmHg, P = 0.008) and ECC (− 333.4 cells/mm², P = 0.027) significantly decreased one month post-surgery and remained stable thereafter. Postoperative mean spherical equivalents were similar to the prediction error throughout the follow-up period. IOP elevation (n = 8, 7.8%), cystoid macular edema (n = 4, 3.9%), and dislocation of the R-IOL (n = 10, 9.7%) were managed successfully. Overall, primary R-IOL implantation with pars plana vitrectomy is effective and safe for correcting IOL dislocation due to various causes.

Retrospective analysis of visual outcomes in retropupillary iris-suture-fixated rigid intraocular lens in a tertiary eye center in southern India

PURPOSE

To report clinical outcomes of retropupillary iris-suture-fixated rigid intraocular lens (IFIOL) SETTING: Tertiary care ophthalmic hospital DESIGN: Retrospective study METHODS: This study included all eyes undergoing IFIOL with a minimum follow-up of 6 months between April 2017 and January 2019. Patients with preexisting anterior or posterior segment pathologies causing defective vision, uveitis or history of previous intraocular surgeries with exception of cataract surgery were excluded from the study. Data were retrieved from electronic medical records, and we documented demographics, history, position of cataractous lens or IOL, primary/secondary surgery and its complications. Postoperative visual acuity, pupillary response, diplopia, centration of IOL, inflammation were also recorded at the baseline visit and at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

One hundred and ten eyes of 110 patients that underwent IFIOL were evaluated. Twenty-two patients (20%) underwent primary IFIOL, whereas 67 (60.9%) patients had secondary IFIOL. In 18 patients (16.36%), IFIOL was done to reposition decentered/dislocated IOLs. At the final follow-up, there was a significant improvement in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) with 87 patients (79.09%) achieving CDVA of 6/12 or better. IFIOL was stable and centered in 101 eyes (91.81%). Two patients (1.81%) had intraoperative complications. Postoperative iritis was seen in 7 patients (6.36%), and 4 patients (3.63%) had rise in IOP.

CONCLUSION

This is a safe, reliable, reproducible technique for aphakia rehabilitation and decentered IOL stabilization with good clinical outcome, especially in a limited resource setting.

Sekundäre Linsenimplantation: chirurgische Techniken und Ergebnisse

Es stehen verschiedene alternative chirurgische Optionen zur Verfügung, um eine sekundäre Intraokularlinse (IOL) in Augen mit unzureichender Kapselunterstützung zu implantieren. Erfolgreiche Techniken umfassen die Implantation einer irisfixierten IOL (IFIOL), einer kammerwinkelgestützten Vorderkammerlinse (ACIOL) oder verschiedene Variationen zur Sklerafixierung (SFIOL). Jede dieser Methoden hat sich als sicher und effektiv erwiesen, weist jedoch verfahrensspezifische Einschränkungen auf. Jüngste Studien zeigen, dass die Entwicklung neuer chirurgischer Techniken diesen Patienten weiterhin sichere und reproduzierbare Behandlungsmöglichkeiten bietet. Obwohl die Implantation von sekundären IOLs ohne Kapselunterstützung von vielen Faktoren, einschließlich der Präferenz des Chirurgen, abhängt, sind nahtlose sklerafixierende Techniken für die chirurgische Gemeinschaft von wachsendem Interesse. Das Bestreben nach kürzeren und weniger traumatischen Operationen sowie nach reproduzierbaren und funktionell guten Ergebnissen, fördert dabei die Entwicklung von neuen Operationstechniken, Intraokularlinsen und Instrumenten. Diese Übersichtsarbeit gibt einen Einblick in alte und neue Behandlungsmethoden zur Korrektur von Aphakie mit sekundären Intraokularlinsen

Surgical Outcomes of Retropupillary-Fixated Iris-Claw Intraocular Lens

Purpose:

To assess the visual outcome and complications following retropupillary-fixated iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

Methods:

For this retrospective, non-comparative study, chart review of patients who underwent retropupillary iris-claw IOL implantation for the correction of aphakia from July 2014 to October 2018 and had a minimum postoperative follow-up of 2 months was carried out. Postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and complications were noted.

Results:

One hundred and twenty-two eyes of 122 patients (mean follow-up: 7.48 ± 5.2 months, range, 2 months-3.5 years) were enrolled in the study. The mean logMAR CDVA improved from 1.36 ± 0.52 preoperatively to 0.5 ± 0.42 postoperatively, at the last follow-up visit (P < 0.0001). The final CDVA improved in 110 eyes (90.2%), remained unchanged in 8 eyes (6.6%), and worsened in 4 eyes (3.3%). In cases of pre-existing cystoid macular edema (CME) or excessive intraoperative manipulations, 0.05 ml of 4 mg intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) was injected at the end of the surgery. Twenty eyes (16.4%) had transient ocular hypertension (OHT), 6 eyes (4.9%) had persistent OHT, and 2 eyes (1.6%) progressed to glaucoma. Choroidal detachment was noted in 2 eyes (1.6%), CME in 6 eyes (4.9%), 2 eyes (1.6%) had retinal detachment, 20 eyes (16.4%) had significant ovalization of pupil, 8 eyes (6.6%) had one haptic disenclavation, 1 eye (0.8%) had corneal decompensation, and 1 eye (0.8%) had endophthalmitis.

Conclusions:

Retropupillary iris-claw IOL provides good visual rehabilitation with a few complications. Its ease of insertion and short surgical time makes it a good option to correct aphakia in patients with an inadequate capsular support.

Iris-claw intraocular lens for aphakia: Can location influence the final outcomes?

PURPOSE

To describe the demographic data, evaluate the long-term refractive and anatomical outcomes, and report the incidence of complications of anterior iris (prepupillary) and posterior iris (retropupillary) fixation of the Artisan aphakia iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL).

SETTING

Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

Patients who had iris-claw IOL implantation were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 (prepupillary) and Group 2 (retropupillary). The corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), anatomical changes, endothelial cell count (ECC), presence of cystoid macular edema (CME), and operative and postoperative complications were determined.

RESULTS

The study comprised 95 eyes of 95 patients. Fifty-seven patients had prepupillary implantation and 38 patients had retropupillary implantation. Indications for surgery were IOL luxation or subluxation (n = 24), lens luxation or subluxation (n = 17), trauma (n = 15), aphakia (n = 30), and other (n = 9). The CDVA improved significantly in both groups and there were no differences between them. A significant ECC reduction was observed in both groups, with no differences between them. The incidence of CME was 16.1% (21.8% in the prepupillary group and 7.9% in the retropupillary group at 3 months and 8 months, respectively), although the difference was not statistically significant. Other postoperative complications were rare and no differences were found between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Irrespective of location, the iris-claw IOL provided good visual outcomes with few complications. However, prepupillary IOL implantation seemed to contribute to greater endothelial cell loss and earlier onset of CME.

Transscleral sutureless intraocular lens versus retropupillary iris-claw lens fixation for paediatric aphakia without capsular support: a randomized study

PURPOSE

To compare results of sutureless transscleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation to retropupillary iris-claw lens implantation in cases of paediatric aphakia without capsular support.

METHODS

Thirty eyes of children with insufficient capsular support for IOL implantation were randomized to undergo sutureless transscleral IOL fixation or iris-claw lens fixation. The primary outcome was best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Secondary outcomes included operative time, astigmatism, central corneal thickness, endothelial cell count (ECC), IOL decentration and tilt, central foveal thickness and complications.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in BCVA at all follow-up visits, with no significant difference between both groups. 53.3% in the transscleral-fixated IOL group and 80% in the iris-claw IOL group had a final BCVA ≥0.3. The operative time was significantly shorter in the iris-claw IOL group (p = 0.001). IOL decentration and tilt were higher in the transscleral-fixated IOL group, but the difference was not significant. The ECC was reduced by 14.6% in the transscleral-fixated IOL group and 11% in the iris-claw group at 6 months, with no significant difference between both groups (p = 0.5). In the transscleral-fixated IOL group, two eyes developed ocular hypertension and two eyes had IOL decentration, while in the iris-claw IOL group, 1 eye developed glaucoma, three eyes had haptic disenclavation, and one eye had retinal detachment.

CONCLUSION

Both techniques yielded a comparable visual outcome. Retropupillary iris-claw lens fixation is a shorter procedure and technically easier than sutureless transscleral fixation, but the risk of disenclavation should be considered especially in younger age groups. Scleral fixation is the only option in case of severe iris damage, but may be associated with more endothelial cell loss.

Five-year follow-up of secondary iris-claw intraocular lens implantation for the treatment of aphakia: Anterior chamber versus retropupillary implantation

BACKGROUND

Though several procedures of IOL implantation have been described (sutured scleral fixation, intra-scleral fixation, angle-supported anterior chamber, and anterior chamber or retropupillary iris-claw IOLs), there are no randomized trials which are comparing different techniques. Hence, the surgical treatment of aphakia still remains controversial and challenging. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term efficacy and the rate of complications of anterior versus posterior Iris-claw intraocular lenses (IOL) implantation to correct for the treatment of aphakia without sufficient capsule support.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Consecutive eyes having secondary implantation of aphakic iris-fixated IOLs with a follow-up of at least 5 years were considered. Mean correct distance visual acuity (CDVA) changes, percentage of eyes with CDVA improvement, mean corneal endothelial cell density (CECD) loss and the rate of other complications were used for statistical analysis. The study evaluated a total of 180 eyes (Group A: 87 anterior chamber iris-claw fixation, Group B: 93 retropupillary iris-claw implantation) of 180 consecutive different patients, with aphakia of various reasons. CDVA improved significantly in both groups after surgery (P<0.001, ANOVA), and was remarkably higher than baseline in both groups from first week and during the entire follow-up (P<0.001, Tukey's Honest Significant Difference). There was no statistically significant difference in CDVA between the two groups during each follow-up visits (P = NS, unpaired t-test) and in the CDVA improvement percentage between the two groups (P = 0.882, Chi-square test). No significant changes in CECD were noted after surgery in both groups (ANOVA Group A: P = 0.067, Group B: P = 0.330P). No intra-operative complications occurred in both groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of complications between the two groups (P = NS, Chi-square test), except for pigment precipitates which were higher in Group A (P<0.05, Chi-square test).

CONCLUSIONS

Five-year follow-up shows that secondary implantation of aphakic IOLs is effective and safe for the correction treatment of aphakia in eyes without capsule support.

A new technique of needle-guided retropupillary fixation of iris-claw intraocular lens

The authors developed a new surgical technique of retropupillary implantation of an iris-claw intraocular lens (RP-ICIOL). RP-ICIOL is an alternative surgical option to the scleral-fixation technique for the treatment of aphakia without capsular support. Several studies have shown that RP-ICIOL is efficient and safe. However, although it is easier to perform than scleral fixation, it presents some critical issues related to the enclavation procedure. The success of the correct enclavation without excessive surgical manipulations, with subsequent pigment dispersion and without pupil distortion, is highly related to the surgical skills of the individual surgeon. The new technique proposed by the authors consists of using a guide needle to facilitate the enclavation, and to make this surgical procedure standard. The new technique was performed in 26 patients affected by aphakia without capsular support with encouraging functional and anatomical results.

Modern methods of fixation of rear-camera intraocular lenses after facoemulsification of the cataract complicated by the violation of capsule support of the lumber

The review of domestic and foreign literature sources examining different methods of fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses after phacoemulsification of cataract, complicated capsular support of the lens is presented. There is a sufficiently widespread of transscleral suturing of the IOL and the prospect of developing IOL fixation in corneal layers.

Comparative Analysis of the Safety and Functional Outcomes of Anterior versus Retropupillary Iris-Claw IOL Fixation

Purpose

To compare the functional and clinical outcomes of the iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) placed on the anterior versus posterior surface of the iris.

Patients and Methods

A multicenter, retrospective study. Data on eyes that underwent anterior or retropupillary iris-claw IOL implantation because of inadequate capsular support secondary to complicated cataract surgery, trauma, and dislocated/opacified IOLs since January 2015 were analyzed. For study inclusion, evaluation results had to be available in the medical records both preoperatively and at 1 and 12 months after implantation. The following parameters were compared between the groups: best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), spherical and cylindrical refractive error, endothelial cell density (ECD), central macular thickness (CMT), and percentage and type of postoperative complications.

Results

In total, 60 eyes of 60 patients aged 73 ± 13 years were included: 28 eyes (47%) involved anterior, and 32 eyes (53%) retropupillary, iris-claw IOL fixations. Preoperatively, the groups were similar in all parameters except for a significantly higher proportion of retropupillary fixations in patients who had previously experienced a closed-globe trauma (p=0.03). The groups showed comparable improvements in BCDVA after surgery (final BCDVA: 0.34 ± 0.45 vs. 0.37 ± 0.50 logMAR in the anterior and retropupillary placement groups, respectively). During follow-up, no group difference was observed in refractive error or CMT. Both groups experienced similarly marked ECD loss and showed similar incidence of postoperative complications, with cystoid macular edema being the most common complication. Multivariable linear regression showed that BCDVA at 1 month was the best predictor of the final BCDVA.

Conclusions

Anterior chamber and posterior chamber iris-claw IOL fixations proved equally effective and safe for aphakic correction in eyes with inadequate capsular support.

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.

Unilateral Iris-Claw Intraocular Lens Implantation for Aphakia: A Paired-Eye Comparison

PURPOSE

To perform a paired-eye comparison of secondary iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) implantation for aphakia.

METHODS

Retrospective, comparative, nonrandomized interventional case series of aphakic eyes, which underwent secondary iris-claw Artisan IOL (Ophtec BV) implantation for aphakia in one eye and no surgery (group 1) or cataract surgery (group 2) in the fellow eye. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), spherical equivalent, central endothelial cell count (cECC), and complications were evaluated before surgery, and at yearly intervals up to 5 years.

RESULTS

Thirty aphakic eyes implanted with the Artisan were included, and the fellow eyes served as controls. In group 1, postoperative logMAR UDVA and CDVA was significantly higher in the Artisan-implanted eyes (P < 0.01). In group 2, no differences were found in postoperative UDVA and postoperative CDVA between the Artisan-implanted eyes and the eyes that underwent cataract surgery throughout the follow-up (P ≥ 0.05). No statistically significant differences were found in postoperative spherical equivalent between the Artisan-implanted eyes and unoperated eyes or eyes that underwent cataract surgery (P ≥ 0.05). In group 1, cECC was significantly lower in the Artisan-implanted eyes [1973 ± 822 vs. 2616 ± 481 cells per square millimeter at 2 years (P < 0.01)] throughout the follow-up (P < 0.01). In group 2, cECC was not significantly lower in the Artisan-implanted eyes (P ≥ 0.05) [1934 ± 689 vs. 2058 ± 818 cells per square millimeter at 2 years (P = 0.67)].

CONCLUSIONS

Visual rehabilitation with secondary iris-claw IOL implantation in aphakic eyes without capsular support seems to be an effective and safe procedure. As expected, uncomplicated cataract surgery with posterior chamber IOL implantation showed lower endothelial cell count loss. Close monitoring of the corneal endothelium is mandatory.

Iris-claw intraocular lens implantation: Anterior chamber versus retropupillary implantation

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of anterior chamber and retropupillary implantation of iris-claw Artisan intraocular lenses (IOL).

Design:

Prospective, randomized, single-blinded study.

Patients and Methods:

Forty eyes of forty aphakic patients were enrolled. Patients were randomized into two groups. Each group includes twenty patients. Group 1 received anterior chamber Artisan IOL implantation. Group 2 received retropupillary Artisan IOL implantation. Preoperative and postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and all complications were noted and compared at 6 months follow-up.

Results:

Each two groups obtained a significant improvement in CDVA (P < 0.05). Four patients in Group 1 and five patients in Group 2 had significant but nonpermanent increase at IOP values. There were one and two pupillary irregularity in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. In one patient, a shallow and inferior located retinal detachment were encountered in anterior chamber group.

Conclusions:

The results were not significantly different between the two fixation techniques for iris-claw lens. The surgery procedure is dependent to surgeon experience and eye's conditions.

Retropupilar positioning of foldable iris-claw intraocular lens for correction of aphakia with no capsular support

Summary

Iris-claw intraocular lens (ICIOL) for aphakia needs a large 5.4 mm corneal incision for its implantation. The technique needs corneal suture, associated with some postoperative astigmatism. Foldable ICIOL is used in phakic patients undergoing refractive surgery and has the advantage of a sutureless small corneal incision. We report a case of a high myopic patient with dislocated intraocular lens (IOL) and no capsular support. Dislocated IOL with its capsular bag was released with three-port, 23-gauge vitrectomy; placed in the anterior chamber; sliced; and extruded through a 3.2-mm corneal incision, where a foldable ICIOL was introduced and placed retropupillary. This technique achieved a stable fixation of the IOL. Retropupillary implantation of a foldable ICIOL on aphakic patients has advantages over that of a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) ICIOL due to smaller corneal incision. The technique may be safe and easy to perform.

Purpose

The purpose of this report was to describe the technique of retropupillary implantation of a foldable iris-claw intraocular lens (ICIOL) in a patient with dislocated intraocular lens (IOL) in mid vitreous cavity.

Methods

Foldable ICIOL (Artiflex^® Myopia Model 401) is used in phakic patients undergoing refractive surgery and has the advantage of a sutureless small corneal incision. We report a case of a high myopic patient with dislocated IOL and no capsular support. The calculation was a −5.0 D IOL for retropupilar position, and a foldable ICIOL was introduced through a 3.2-mm corneal incision and placed retropupillary.

Results

The technique was easy to achieve. IOL was properly positioned retropupillary and maintained stable. There was no ocular hypertension and no anterior chamber flare or iris atrophy.

Conclusion

Retropupillary implantation of a foldable ICIOL on aphakic patients has advantages over that of a PMMA ICIOL due to smaller corneal incision. The technique may be safe and easy to perform.

Retropupillary iris claw intraocular lens implantation in aphakia for dislocated intraocular lens

Background

Nowadays, dislocated intraocular lenses (IOLs) and inadequate capsular support are becoming a challenge for every ophthalmic surgeon. Explantation of dislocated IOL and iris claw IOL (ICIOL) are the techniques that have been used in our ophthalmic department. The aim of this study is to report our technique for retropupillar ICIOL.

Methods

This study is a retrospective case series. A total of 105 eyes with dislocated IOL from the patients at the Department of Ophthalmology in Santa Maria Hospital, a tertiary reference hospital in Lisbon, Portugal, from January 2012 until January 2016, had been analyzed. Of these 105 eyes, 66 eyes had dislocated one-piece IOL and 39 eyes had dislocated three-piece IOL. The latter underwent iris suture of the same IOL and were excluded from this study. The remaining 66 eyes with dislocated one-piece IOL underwent pars plana vitrectomy, that is, explantation of dislocated IOL through corneal incision and an implantation of retropupillary ICIOL. Operative data and postoperative outcomes included best corrected visual acuity, IOL position, intraocular pressure, pigment dispersion, clinical signs of endothelial cell loss, and anterior chamber depth.

Results

The mean follow-up was 23 months (range: 6–48 months). The mean preoperative best corrected visual acuity was 1.260±0.771 logMAR, and postoperative best corrected visual acuity was 0.352±0.400 logMAR units. Mean vision gain was 0.909 logMar units. The patients had the following complications: 1) retinal detachment was found in one patient, 2) corneal edema was found in three patients, 3) high intraocular pressure was observed in twelve patients, 4) subluxation of the IOL was observed in one patient, and 5) macular edema was found in three eyes.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that retropupillary ICIOL is an easy and effective method for the correction of aphakia in patients not receiving capsule support. The safety of this procedure must be interpreted in the context of a surgery usually indicated in complicated cases.

Long Term Clinical and Visual Outcomes of Retrofixated Iris Claw Lenses Implantation in Complicated Cases

Aims:

To evaluate the visual outcomes and complications after implantation of retrofixated iris claw (RFIC) lens in various challenging situations.

Settings and Design:

Retrospective, single centre, 8 year clinical audit.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of cases who underwent RFIC lens implantation alone (group 1) or in combination with vitreoretinal (VR), corneal or glaucoma procedures (group 2) was performed. The main outcomes evaluated were corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA) and postoperative complications. The mean follow up was 13.09±6.8 (range 6-24) months.

Results:

The study involved 100 eyes of 83 patients with mean age of 51.1±25.4 years. Group 1 included 59 eyes and group 2 had 41 eyes. In group 1, the mean CDVA improved from 0.86±0.81 to 0.38±0.51 LogMAR (p<0.001) with 72.8% eyes having gain in lines (≥ 2 lines) of CDVA with safety index of 1.73. The mean CDVA in group 2 improved from 0.71±0.65 to 0.38±0.34 LogMAR (p=0.003) with 65.8% eyes having gain in lines (≥ 2 lines) of CDVA with a safety index of 1.54. Group 2 showed a higher complication rate of 36.59% compared to group 1 (20.34%). Significant complications noted were secondary glaucoma (8%), disenclavation of haptic (4%), subluxation of RFIC lens (1%).

Conclusion:

The visual outcome with RFIC lenses when combined with other intraocular procedures is mainly affected by the complexity of co-existing pathologies .The complications are more related to the combined procedures performed rather than RFIC lens implantation alone. This may still be acceptable when complication profile of other intraocular lenses is evaluated in similar challenging situations.

Long-term follow-up of retropupillary iris-claw intraocular lens implantation: a retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

The ideal intraocular lens in cases of aphakia without capsular support is debated. Choices include anterior chamber lenses, iris- or scleral-sutured lenses, and iris-claw lenses. Our aim was to report our long-term evaluation of the use of retropupillary implantation of the Artisan iris-claw intraocular lens (RPICIOL) in several aphakic conditions without capsular support.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of consecutive 320 eyes of 320 patients (222 males and 98 females) without capsular support in which we performed RPICIOL implantation in post-traumatic aphakia (141 eyes, group 1), post-cataract surgery aphakia (122 eyes, group 2), and in cases in which penetrating keratoplasty was associated with vitrectomy (57 eyes, group 3). Either anterior or posterior vitrectomy procedures were performed with 20-, 23-, or 25-gauge techniques for different associated anterior or posterior segment indications. We reviewed the refractive outcome, anatomical outcome, long-term stability of the implants, and possible long-term complications.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 59.7 years (range, 16-84 years) in group 1; 60.1 years (range, 14-76 years) in group 2; and 65.8 years (range, 25-71.5 years) in group 3. The mean follow-up time was 5.3 years (range, 1 month to 8 years). At the end of the follow-up period, the mean post-operative best-corrected LogMAR visual acuity was 0.6 (range, perception of light to 0.3) in group 1; 0.3 (range, 0.5-0.1) in group 2; and 0.6 (range, hand movement to 0.2) in group 3. Disenclavation of RPICIOLs occurred in three cases because of slippage of one of the iris-claw haptics and spontaneous complete posterior dislocation occurred in one case. One case presented with retinal detachment, and no cases of uveitis were observed. Eight cases complained of chronic dull pain, and severe iridodonesis was seen in five cases. One case of post-operative macular edema was observed without post-operative increase in the mean intraocular pressure. There was no statistically different change in the endothelial cell density (cells/mm(2)) at the end of the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

RPICIOL for secondary implantations is a valid alternative strategy to scleral-fixated or angle-supported IOL implantation.

Iris-claw, retropupillary-fixated, aphakic intraocular lens implantation for traumatic aphakia following penetrating keratoplasty

We report the correction of aphakia using an iris-claw, aphakic intraocular lens (IOL) fixated in a retropupillary location in a 17-year-old young man who suffered blunt trauma to his eye 5 months after penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). There were no intraoperative complications. At 21 months after implantation, the patient's uncorrected distance visual acuity was 20/28; his corrected distance visual acuity was 20/22, with +0.50 -3.00 × 155. Intraocular pressure was normal, and endothelial cell count was 1798 cells/mm(2).

Aphakia correction with retropupillary fixated iris-claw lens (Artisan) - long-term results

PURPOSE

To evaluate the technique, safety, and efficacy of the retropupillary implantation of iris-claw intraocular lenses in a long-term follow-up study.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 31 eyes of 31 patients who underwent an Artisan aphakic intraocular lens implantation between January 2006 and February 2011 at the University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany and at the Zentrum für Augenheilkunde PD Dr Laube, Düsseldorf, Germany. Preoperative data collected included demographics, etiology of aphakia, previous surgeries, preoperative eye pathology, intraocular pressure, clinical signs of endothelial cell loss, and best corrected visual acuity. Operative data and postoperative outcomes included the best corrected visual acuity, lens position, intraocular pressure, pigment dispersion, clinical signs of endothelial cell loss, development of macular edema, and other complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were included. The mean follow-up was 25.2 months (range: 4-48 months). The mean best corrected visual acuity postoperatively was 0.64 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) and varied from 0 logMAR to 3 logMAR. Some patients had a low visual acuity preoperatively because of preoperative eye pathologies. In 22 patients the visual acuity improved, in two patients the visual acuity remained unchanged, and seven patients showed a decreased visual acuity. Complications were peaked pupils (n=10) and retinal detachment in one case. Four patients showed an iris atrophy and high intraocular pressure was observed only in one patient. Subluxation of the intraocular lens, endothelial cell loss, and macular edema were not observed.

CONCLUSION

The presented long-term results demonstrate that retropupillary iris-claw lens implantation is a safe and effective method for the correction of aphakia in patients without capsule support. This surgical procedure has the advantages of a posterior chamber implantation with a low intraoperative and postoperative risk profile.

Posterior iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens implantation in subluxated lenses due to Marfan syndrome

PURPOSE

To evaluate the indications, visual outcomes, and complication rate after posterior implantation of an iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens (IOL) in subluxated lenses due to Marfan syndrome.

METHODS

Eyes without adequate capsular support had posterior chamber iris-claw aphakic IOL implantation between 2006 and 2012.

RESULTS

This retrospective cohort study comprised 13 eyes of 10 patients (7 female, 3 male; mean age ± standard deviation, 34.7 ± 19.6; range 9-61 years). The mean follow-up was 37 months (range 6-74 months). The mean final postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was significantly (0.24 ± 0.36 logMAR) better at the last follow-up than 1 day preoperatively (0.72 ± 0.46 logMAR) (p<0.05). There was no significant change in intraocular pressure before and after surgery. The mean endothelial cell density decreased from 2793 ± 478 cells/mm2 preoperatively to 2637 ± 612 cells/mm2 at last follow-up, representing a mean endothelial cell loss of 5.6%. Complications included early transient postoperative hypotony in 2 eyes (15.4%), slight persistent pupil ovalization in 1 eye (7.7%), and retinal detachment in 1 eye (7.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

The posterior implantation technique of aphakic iris-claw IOL provided good visual outcomes with a favorable complication rate and can be used as a reasonable alternative in subluxated lenses due to Marfan syndrome without adequate capsular support.

Posterior iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens implantation in children

PURPOSE

To evaluate the indications, visual outcomes, and complication rate after posterior implantation of an iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens (IOL) in children.

DESIGN

Noncomparative retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

setting: Institutional practice. patients/intervention procedures: Seven eyes of 4 children without adequate capsular support had posterior chamber iris-claw aphakic IOL implantation between 2007 and 2012. main outcome measures: Visual acuity, endothelial cell changes, intraoperative and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 3 boys and 1 girl was 12.0 ± 3.4 (SD) years (range 8-16 years). In all eyes, the mean postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (0.13 ± 0.17 logMAR) was statistically significantly better at the last follow-up than at 1 day preoperatively (0.60 ± 0.39 logMAR) (P < .05). The mean follow-up was 31 months (range 10-64 months). The mean endothelial cell density decreased from 3013 ± 155 cells/mm(2) preoperatively to 2831 ± 236 cells/mm(2) at last follow-up, representing a mean endothelial cell loss of 6.4%. No corneal decompensation, iritis, secondary glaucoma, or pupillary block occurred after surgery in any eye. Postoperative complications included transient postoperative hypotony in 1 eye and a traumatic dislocation of a posterior aphakic iris-claw IOL in 1 eye.

CONCLUSION

The posterior implantation technique of aphakic iris-claw IOL provided good visual outcomes with a favorable complication rate and can be used as a reasonable alternative for a wide range of indications in pediatric eyes without adequate capsular support.

Visual outcomes and complications following posterior iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens implantation combined with penetrating keratoplasty

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the indication, visual outcome, and complication rate after implantation of a posterior iris-claw aphakic intraocular lens (IOL) during penetrating keratoplasty.

METHODS

This retrospective study comprised 23 eyes (23 patients) without adequate capsule support undergoing posterior iris-claw aphakic IOL implantation (Verisyse/Artisan) during penetrating keratoplasty between 2005 and 2010. Mean follow-up was 18 months (range from 12 to 37 months).

RESULTS

The IOLs were inserted during an IOL exchange in 17 eyes and as a secondary procedure in six aphakic eyes. Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy with corneal scar after anterior chamber intraocular lens (ACIOL) was the main indication for penetrating keratoplasty in 16 eyes (69.6 %). The final corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) in logMAR (mean 1.0 ± 0.46) improved significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the preoperative CDVA (mean 1.8 ± 0.73). Twenty eyes (86.9 %) had a final visual acuity in logMAR better than the pre-operative CDVA. The mean postoperative IOP 16.3 mmHg ± 4.0 was not significantly (p > 0.05) higher compared to the preoperative IOP 15.6 mmHg ± 5.1. Complications included slight temporary pupil ovalization in three eyes (13.0 %) and iris-claw IOL sublocation in three eyes (13.0 %); all IOLs could be easily repositioned. Cystoid macular edema occured in one eye (4.3 %) 8 weeks after primary surgery. All grafts remained clear without any sign of graft rejection.

CONCLUSIONS

Retropupillar iris-claw IOL during penetrating keratoplasty provides good visual outcomes with a favorable complication rate, and can be used for a wide range of indications in eyes without adequate capsule support.