Simplified and safe method of sutureless intrascleral posterior chamber intraocular lens fixation: Y-fixation technique

Safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes of transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens

BACKGROUND

Implantation of intraocular lens in the capsular bag has become the standard of care in aphakic state. However, in the absence of capsular support, several techniques and intraocular lenses are available. Our study aims to report the safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes of transconjunctival intrascleral intraocular lens fixation with Yamane's double-needle technique and flanged haptics.

METHODS

Prospective, observational study with some retrospective data collection. The study enrolled 13 patients (16 eyes) who underwent transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens with Yamane's technique between June 2017 and April 2019 at Dhahran Eye Specialist Hospital and King Fahd University Hospital. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative comprehensive evaluation, including uncorrected and best-corrected vision, intraocular pressure, slit-lamp examination, dilated fundus examination, and ultrasound biomicroscopy. We excluded patients with visually significant coexistent pathology such as retinal diseases, glaucoma, follow-up less than three months, and combined surgery such as keratoplasty.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative uncorrected visual acuity was 1.50 logMAR, and it improved to 0.60 logMAR. The mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 0.70 logMAR, and it improved to 0.40 logMAR. The median safety index was 2.0, and the median efficacy index was 1.58. The postoperative complications included iris capture by the intraocular lens in one eye (7.7%), haptic extrusion in one eye (7.7%), and transient cornea edema in one eye (7.7%). There were no detected reports during the follow-up period of postoperative retinal detachment, choroidal detachment, elevation of the intraocular pressure (> 25 mmHg), hypotony, hyphema, vitreous hemorrhage, or endophthalmitis.

CONCLUSIONS

The transconjunctival intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens is safe and effective with a short learning curve and was not associated with significant intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Comparison of complications of intrascleral fixation according to the extent of vitrectomy

BACKGROUND

Intraocular lens (IOL) fixation is performed after intraoperative anterior or total vitrectomy. This study aimed to compare the intraoperative and postoperative complications of these two techniques.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 235 eyes that underwent intrascleral fixation surgery at our hospital between July 2014 and January 2021. The eyes were classified into the anterior vitrectomy group (A-vit group; 134 eyes) and the pars plana vitrectomy group (PPV group; 101 eyes). The age, preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity, observation period, preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure, and the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications were assessed.

RESULTS

Intrascleral fixation was performed more frequently in the PPV group, and a significant difference was observed between the eyes with a history of vitrectomy and eyes with scleral buckles (p = 0.00041). In terms of the incidence of postoperative complications following intrascleral fixation, the incidence of low intraocular pressure postoperative was higher in the PPV group than that in the A-vit group, and a significant difference was observed between the two groups (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The visual outcome and complications following intrascleral fixation did not differ according to the extent of vitreous excision.

CONTRIBUTION FACTORS OF EFFECTIVE LENS POSITION, TILT, AND DECENTRATION DURING FLANGED SCLERAL FIXATION OF INTRAOCULAR LENS: A Model Eye Study

PURPOSE

The authors aimed to elucidate the factors related to effective lens position, tilt, and decentration of scleral fixed intraocular lenses (IOLs) with a flanged haptic technique in an artificial eye model using anterior segment optical coherence tomography.

METHODS

Two bent 27-gauge needles were passed through a 1.0- or 2.0-mm scleral tunnel, 2.0 mm posterior to the limbus and 180° apart. Both haptics of a three-piece IOL were docked with guide needles and externalized. Factors related to the IOL position were analyzed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography and a stereomicroscope.

RESULTS

The 1.0-mm scleral tunnel induced a significantly longer effective lens position than the 2.0-mm tunnel and suture fixation ( P < 0.05 and P < 0.01, respectively). Discrepancy in scleral tunnel length induced higher decentration of the optic to the opposite side of the haptic-embedded shorter tunnel and tilt perpendicular to the fixed axis than that in the scleral tunnel of the same length ( P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). If the scleral fixation points of both haptics are not exactly 180° apart, the IOL may become decentered and tilted ( P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In the flanged haptic technique, the length, balance, and position of both scleral tunnels determine IOL effective lens position, tilt, and decentration.

Vitreous management in Yamane's technique for crystalline lens dislocation: anterior vitrectomy or PPV?

OBJECTIVE

To study the postoperative visual outcomes and surgical complications of anterior/pars plana vitrectomy and concurrent Yamane's IOL fixation for crystalline lens dislocation.

METHODS

Fifty-three patients (56 eyes) with crystalline lens subluxation/dislocation were enrolled in this retrospective interventional study. Patients received anterior/pars plana vitrectomy and concurrent Yamane's IOL fixation. Main outcome measures were postoperative BCVA and surgical complications. Proportion of spontaneous PVD and preoperative undetected retinal holes/degeneration (PURH/D) were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-four eyes were treated with anterior vitrectomy (Group AnV) and 32 eyes with pars plana vitrectomy (Group PPV). Overall incidence of PURH/D was 10.7% (6/56). Spontaneous PVD occurred in 68.8% (24/32) in Group PPV. During six months follow-up, one case of postoperative RRD and one case of choroidal detachment occurred in Group AnV. There was no significant difference between anterior vitrectomy and PPV in the final BCVA and postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

Anterior or pars plana vitrectomy, which are both applicable in YAMANE technique for crystalline lens dislocation, exhibit similar surgical outcomes. Patient's age, PVD status and PURH helps to determine the route of vitrectomy. Pediatric patients might be potential candidates for transcorneal vitreolensectomy. For adult, PURH managed with total vitrectomy and intraoperative lase retinopexy might be beneficial to decrease the incidence of postoperative RRD.

Usefulness of intraoperative optical coherence tomography to minimize the intraocular lens tilt during the intrascleral fixation: a clinical and experimental evaluation

To report the usefulness of intraoperative real-time adjustment of intraocular lens (IOL) tilt during the intrascleral fixation with intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) as a clinical evaluation and investigate the factors contributing to IOL tilt using iOCT as an experimental evaluation. Retrospective cohort study and experimental research. As a clinical evaluation, the medical records of 43 eyes of 41 patients who underwent intrascleral IOL fixation combined with real-time iOCT observation were retrospectively reviewed. As an experimental evaluation, in order to investigate the factors contributing to IOL tilt, the four experiments were performed using iOCT. The mean IOL tilt angle (°) at the end of surgery and 3 months after surgery were 1.81 ± 1.15 and 2.10 ± 1.66, respectively (p = 0.46). No apparent intra- or postoperative complications occurred during the follow-up period. The experimental evaluation indicated that the IOL tilt was influenced by the insertion angle of the haptic in the vertical direction. The mean IOL tilt angle (°) was 1.94 ± 0.09, 4.67 ± 0.11, 8.90 ± 0.11, and 15.78 ± 0.85 when the insertion angle of the haptic was 0°, 10°, 27.5°, and 45° in the vertical direction, respectively (p < 0.01). Clinical and experimental IOL tilt assessment using iOCT is interactively useful for better quality surgery and better postoperative outcome.

4-Flanged intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens through the dialing hole

The high prevalence of mature, hypermature, and traumatic cataracts in developing countries, combined with the limited availability of surgical resources and skill by anterior segment surgeons to manage the resultant aphakia, leaves the patient needlessly blind. Relying on posterior segment surgeons, expensive surgical setup, and appropriate lenses for aphakia management limits the number of patients receiving a secondary intraocular lens (IOL). Utilizing the well-acknowledged flanging technique and the readily available polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) lenses with dialing holes in their optic, a hammock can be created through the dialing holes using a 7-0 polypropylene suture on a straight needle. This 4-flanged scleral fixation through the dialing hole of an IOL makes scleral fixation of PMMA lens possible by even anterior segment surgeons without requiring any specialized equipment or scleral fixated lens with eyelet. This technique was successfully performed in a series of 103 cases with no incidence of IOL decentration.

Evaluations of bridging sutures in preventing iris capture in eyes with intrascleral fixation of implanted intraocular lens

PURPOSE

The study aims to determine the effectiveness of bridging sutures in preventing iris capture and a subsequent reverse pupillary block after an intrascleral fixation of an implanted intraocular lens (IOL).

METHODS

We studied 6 eyes that had an iris capture with reverse pupillary block due to a dislocated IOL after an intrascleral fixation. After the dislocated IOL was repositioned, 10-0 polypropylene sutures were inserted 1.5 mm posterior to the limbus and directed to run between the iris and the IOL. The sutures were placed orthogonal to the haptics of the IOL. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) was used in 4 eyes to evaluate the degree of iridodonesis before and after the bridging sutures. The heights of the temporal and nasal sectors of the middle iris from the iris plane (the line between anterior chamber angles) were compared for each 0.2-s AS-OCT image taken immediately after the eye moved from a lateral to a primary position.

RESULTS

None of the eyes had a recurrence of the iris capture after the bridging sutures. The refractive error, anterior chamber depth, and vision were not significantly altered after the bridging sutures were placed. The AS-OCT images showed that the height of the nasal iris was decreased more at 0 s postoperatively blocking the excessive downward movement of the nasal iris but not the iridodonesis.

CONCLUSION

Bridging sutures were effective in preventing iris capture and subsequent reverse pupillary block after an intrascleral fixation of an IOL.

Real world outcomes of sutureless and glueless sclerally fixated intraocular lens implantation

PURPOSE

To report the outcomes of sutureless intrascleral fixation of a 3-piece intraocular lens in the ciliary sulcus, in a large cohort of patients with aphakia of various aetiology METHODS: Retrospective, non-comparative, single centre interventional study of 250 aphakic eyes of various causes, which underwent sutureless and glueless intrascleral fixation of 3-piece intraocular lens (IOL). All patients were required to have at least 3 months of follow up post procedure to be included in the study. Anatomical and functional outcomes obtained were statistically analysed for significance.

RESULTS

A total of 250 eyes of 246 patients were included in the study population. The average age was 56.5 years ± 16.4 (range 6-86 years). The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) significantly improved from 0.74 ± 0.6 logMAR (approx. Snellen equivalent 20/110) to 0.48 ± 0.36 logMAR (approx. Snellen equivalent 20/60), (p < 0.001) following surgery. Early postoperative complication (<2 weeks) included hypotony (n = 10, 4%), ocular hypertension (n = 38,15.2%) and vitreous haemorrhage (n = 50, 20%). Late complications included retinal detachment (n = 14, 5.6%%), cystoid macular oedema (n = 24, 9.6%), scleral erosion (n = 1, 0.4%), haptic extrusion to subconjunctival space (n = 3, 1.2%) and IOL subluxation or dislocation (n = 5, 2%) CONCLUSION: This cost-effective and easier technique of sutureless scleral fixated 3-piece IOL implantation provided good visual acuity outcomes in a large cohort of patients and was well tolerated.

Large Amplitude Iris Fluttering Detected by Consecutive Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography Images in Eyes with Intrascleral Fixation of an Intraocular Lens

Saccadic eye movements induce movements of the aqueous and vitreous humor and iris fluttering. To evaluate iris fluttering during eye movements, anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) was used in 29 eyes with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and intrascleral fixation of an intraocular lens (ISF group) and 15 eyes with PPV and an IOL implantation into lens capsular bag (control group). The height of the iris from the iris plane (the line between the anterior chamber angles) was compared every 0.2 s after the eye had moved from a temporal to the primary position (time 0). The height of the nasal iris in the ISF group decreased to −0.68 ± 0.43 mm at 0 s (p < 0.001) and returned to −0.06 ± 0.23 mm at 0.2 s. The height of the temporal iris increased to 0.45 ± 0.31 mm at 0 s (p < 0.001) and returned to −0.06 ± 0.18 mm at 0.2 s. The height of the nasal iris at 0 s in the ISF group was significantly lower, and that of the temporal iris was significantly higher than the control (−0.05 ± 0.09 mm, 0.03 ± 0.06 mm, p < 0.001, respectively). Iris fluttering can act as a check valve for aqueous and vitreous humor movements and can be quantified by consecutive AS-OCT images. Large amplitude iris fluttering in eyes with intrascleral fixation is important because it can lead to a reverse pupillary block.

Endoscope-Assisted Sutureless Intrascleral Haptic Fixation of a Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens

Purpose:

In eyes with compromised capsule support, sutureless scleral fixation is a popular method of placing a posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL). We describe an endoscope-assisted sutureless technique for intrascleral fixation of a 3-piece PCIOL.

Methods:

Eyes of patients who had endoscope-assisted scleral-fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL) implantation were examined retrospectively. The technique comprised direct capture of the IOL haptic with a forceps through a pars plana sclerotomy with subsequent haptic fixation into scleral tunnels created with a 26-gauge needle. The endoscope was used to visualize haptic positioning under the iris and ensure proper centration of the IOL.

Results:

Thirteen eyes of 13 patients were examined. The mean age of the patients was 68.2 years (range, 38-87 years), and the mean follow-up was 13.6 months (range, 5-23 months). The indications for surgery were a subluxated IOL (6 eyes), postoperative aphakia (5 eyes), and a subluxated cataract (2 eyes). The mean best-corrected visual acuity ± SD improved significantly from 1.2 ± 0.6 logMAR preoperatively to 0.6 ± 0.7 logMAR at last the follow-up (paired Welch t test; t10 = 2.69; P = .023). IOL stability and centration were maintained in all patients.

Conclusions:

Endoscopic visualization during sutureless SFIOL implantation helped improve haptic localization, minimize intraoperative complications, and achieve excellent IOL centration.

Intra-vitreal gas injection and supine positioning for hypotony post-intrascleral intraocular lens fixation

Purpose

This study aimed to report a case of intravitreal gas injection in the supine position for hypotony after intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation in a patient with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease.

Observations

A 72-year-old Japanese female patient presented with blurred vision in her right eye. Both eyes exhibited a sunset glow fundus due to VKH disease. The right IOL was dislocated; therefore, IOL fixation was performed. The patient's hypotony and choroidal effusion persisted postoperatively and her intraocular pressure (IOP) remained 2–4 mmHg despite the performance of two steroid courses. C3F8 (perfluoro pane gas) was injected into the vitreous cavity on postoperative day 35. The patient was instructed to assume a supine position on the third day after injection. At 6 days post-injection, her IOP began to rise; her IOP remained within the normal range until 1 year later.

Conclusions and Importance

This is the first report of successful intravitreal gas injection in a supinated patient with VKH disease to treat postoperative hypotony.

Refractive error induced by intraocular lens tilt after intrascleral intraocular lens fixation

PURPOSE

To investigate the spherical shift of intraocular lens (IOL) tilt after intrascleral fixation.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent flanged intrascleral IOL fixation with transconjunctival 25- or 27-gauge pars plana vitrectomy at the Department of Ophthalmology of the Jikei University Hospital. The minimum follow-up duration was 3 months. Second-generation anterior segment optical coherence tomography (CASIA2; TOMEY) was used to obtain the values of tilt and decentration of the intrasclerally fixated IOL and postoperative anterior chamber depth. We investigated the relationship between refractive error and various parameters, such as IOL tilt and decentration, axial length, and keratometry. In addition to our clinical investigation, we conducted optical simulations using Zemax to evaluate the spherical shift of the IOL tilt by means of the through-focus response and change in spherical equivalent power.

RESULTS

The study involved 72 eyes of 67 patients. The degree of IOL tilt was correlated with the amount of refractive error (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient [CC] = - 0.32; P = 0.006). In particular, a tilt angle greater than 10° strongly affected the refractive error. The postoperative anterior chamber depth also correlated with the refractive error (CC = 0.50; P < 0.001), as opposed to decentration (CC = - 0.17; P = 0.15), axial length (CC = - 0.08; P = 0.49), and keratometry (CC = - 0.06; P = 0.64). Optical simulations also revealed a myopic shift that exponentially increased as the tilt became greater.

CONCLUSION

IOL tilts that are greater than 10° induce refractive error.

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.

Punch and rescue technique for scleral fixation of dislocated single-piece intraocular lenses

In-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation is a well-known complication after cataract surgery. As the number of cataract surgeries performed annually continues to increase, so will the incidence of IOL dislocations requiring surgical correction. Described is a new technique for rescue and refixation of a single-piece acrylic IOL. In this method, a new instrument called the IOL punch is used to create a hole at the optic-haptic junction or along the border of the optic, which acts as an anchor point for centration and subsequent scleral fixation of a dislocated IOL. The IOL punch allows for precise intraocular manipulation of the IOL and is less invasive compared with popular scleral fixation methods. This innovative technique may decrease the risk for postoperative complications and allows patients to maintain or recover previous uncorrected visual acuity by circumventing the need for IOL explantation or exchange.

Novel Sutureless Scleral Fixated IOL for Inadequate or Absent Capsular Support

Purpose. To evaluate the clinical outcome and safety profile of a new sutureless scleral fixation (SSF) technique using a single-piece foldable acrylic Carlevale intraocular lens. Methods. In this case study, 27 eyes of 27 patients were implanted with an SSF single-piece IOL because of inadequate or absent capsular support. The hand-shake technique used during surgery was combined with the creation of scleral pockets in order to secure the IOL haptics. The BCVA was evaluated in the 1st and 6th month in every patient and in the 12th and 24th months, when possible. Also, we evaluated the improvement achieved in spherical equivalent values from baseline to the 6th month after the procedure. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were assessed. Results. The mean age was 69.1 ± 14.9 years, and the mean follow-up was 13.6 ± 4.8 months. Indications of scleral-fixated IOL included dislocated posterior chamber IOL (40.7%), dislocated anterior chamber IOL (11.1%), subluxated traumatic cataract (18.5%), subluxated nontraumatic cataract (18.5%), and aphakia (11.1%). Concurrent PPV was performed on eight of the eyes (32%). The mean preoperative logMAR BCVA increased from 0.85 ± 0.59 baseline to 0.44 ± 0.30 one month after surgery $\left(p<0.01\right)$ and 0.36 ± 0.34 $\left(p<0.003\right)$ six months after surgery. The baseline refractive status expressed in SE was 4.3 ± 6.4 D, and the postoperative status was −0.5 ± 0.99 D. Postoperative complications included vitreous hemorrhage (7.4%), hypotony (7.4%), transient IOP elevation (3.7%), and postoperative cystoid macular oedema (3.7%). The IOL was very well centered and stable in every case during the follow-up period. Conclusion. The use of the SSF technique with implantation of a single-piece foldable acrylic Carlevale IOL seems to be a safe and effective alternative method that provides good preliminary results in cases where capsular support is inadequate or absent. Long-term stability results would be required to evaluate the benefit of this novel surgical approach in order to compare it with other existing methods.

Intrascleral Intraocular Lens Fixation Preserving the Lens Capsule in Cases of Cataract with Insufficient Zonular Support

Purpose

To report our modified simple technique for optic capture and the clinical results of intrascleral IOL fixation preserving the lens capsule, without vitrectomy, in cases of cataract with insufficient zonular support to stabilize the intraocular lens (IOL).

Patients and Methods

In 37 eyes of 25 patients with phacodonesis and two or more risk factors for progressive zonular insufficiency, we inserted a CTR to support the capsule and zonules during cataract surgery and IOL fixation; an optic was inserted into the lens capsule, and a haptic was fixed in the scleral tunnel without vitrectomy. In all cases, anterior or total vitrectomy was not needed.

Results

The postoperative mean (± standard deviation) tilt and decentration of the implanted IOL did not change from 6 to 12 months (6.77 ± 3.15° to 6.33 ± 3.38° and 0.60 ± 0.30 to 0.61 ± 0.35 mm, respectively). We encountered no late IOL dislocation and no retinal complications, including retinal breaks or cystoid macular oedema, postoperatively (follow-up = 21.1 ± 5.2 months).

Conclusion

Our modified techniques preclude the need for vitrectomy. If the lens capsule can be preserved using a CTR, our modified technique can be used to stabilize IOL.

Scleral Fixation of Intraocular Lens in Aphakic Eyes without Capsular Support: Description of a New Technique

Purpose

To study the efficacy and safety of a modified trans-scleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation technique in aphakic eyes when performed by ophthalmologists in training.

Methods

The study was conducted in an institutional setting that included 43 surgeries performed by surgeons training in small incision cataract surgeries. The data were analyzed for stability and position of IOL, refractive changes, best-corrected vision, and associated complications.

Results

Mean age of the subjects was 53.8 ± 18.5yrs (range 6–81yrs). Surgical aphakia (58.14%) was the most common cause. The corrected distance visual acuity improved significantly at six weeks (p = 0.0003). The mean residual spectacle correction was +0.74 ± 1.2D spherical equivalent (cylinder −1.6±1.5D at 84 ± 50°) at the 6th-month follow-up (24.35 ± 6.71wks). Lens tilt on ultrasound biomicroscopy (kappa 0.762; p < 0.001) and the IOL centration (kappa 0.411; p = 0.001), assessed by two independent masked observers, were satisfactory at the 6th-month visit. Transient postoperative vitreous hemorrhage was the most common complication (46.5%). Cellular deposits on the IOL surface (18.6%), cystoid macular edema (11.6%), subconjunctival haptic exposure (4.66%), and haptic slippage (2.33%) were the other complications.

Conclusion

This method of trans-scleral IOL fixation is an effective rescue procedure for eyes with deficient capsular support when ophthalmologists perform in training.

Enhanced surgical technique for sutureless intrascleral fixation of intraocular lenses

A simplified intrascleral fixation technique involving implantation of the Carlevale intraocular lens (IOL) in the posterior chamber is described, which lodges the T-shaped IOL haptics in the scleral wall, not requiring scleral flaps. This surgical modification reduces operative time, limits iatrogenic damage to the sclera, and avoids friction between haptics and the conjunctiva, which may cause conjunctival erosion and infection in the long term. 13 patients with crystalline lens or IOL dislocation/subluxation had surgery to implant the Carlevale IOL in the posterior chamber. Mean corrected distance visual acuity preoperatively was 0.75 ± 0.5 logMAR (range, 0.2 to 1.5 logMAR) and improved to 0.28 ± 0.3 logMAR (range, 0 to 1.0 logMAR) postoperatively. Complications rarely occurred and were not sight-threatening. The sutureless scleral fixation of the Carlevale IOL using the modified surgical technique may represent a safe and effective procedure to restore visual function in patients with damaged zonular-capsular support.

A Modified Intrascleral Intraocular Lens Fixation Technique Using 27-Gauge Blunted Needles with Fewer Intraocular Manipulations

A new method for intraocular lens (IOL) fixation in the scleral tunnel using two common 27G blunted needles and an ultrathin 30G needle with fewer intraocular manipulations was developed. Half-depth scleral flaps were prepared, and vertically angled sclerotomies were performed under each scleral flap, 2 mm from the limbs with a 20G microblade or a 26G needle. Two bent 27G blunted needles connected the sclerotomy and corneoscleral incisions. One haptic was inserted into this bent 27G blunted needle extraocularly and extruded through the sclerotomy site. Each haptic was inserted into the lumen of the preplaced ultrathin 30G needle and buried into the scleral tunnel. In this retrospective study, we reviewed the outcomes of this new technique in patients with at least 3 months' follow-up data. Iris capture of the IOL was not observed in any case, and IOL repositioning was not performed either. Astigmatism induced by intraocular aberration was almost as same as that with other methods. Our technique can be performed in any operation room without any extra instruments. This trial is registered with UMIN000044350.

Outcomes of flanged IOL fixation combined with microhook trabeculotomy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of flanged intraocular lens fixation combined with microhook trabeculotomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study was a retrospective case series and included nine eyes of nine exfoliation glaucoma patients with subluxated lens or intraocular lens who underwent flanged intraocular lens fixation combined with microhook trabeculotomy between May 2019 and February 2020 at the Kochi University Hospital. The mean best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and number of antiglaucoma medications were compared before and after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up period was 5.67 ± 2.50 months. The mean best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly from 0.83 ± 0.72 preoperatively to 0.22 ± 0.34 at the last visit (p = 0.015). The mean intraocular pressure had significantly reduced from 27.1 ± 8.12 mmHg preoperatively to 13.2 ± 3.73 at the last visit (p = 0.008). The mean number of antiglaucoma medications decreased significantly from 4.56 ± 1.88 to 2.0 ± 1.0 at the last visit (p = 0.008). Postoperative intraocular pressure control to 21 mmHg or lower was achieved or maintained in all patients. Postoperative vitreous hemorrhage was observed in six eyes (66.7%), two of which needed reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that flanged intraocular lens fixation combined with microhook trabeculotomy might be effective for exfoliation glaucoma with subluxated lens or intraocular lens.

Adjustment of intraocular lens tilt during intrascleral fixation assisted by intraoperative OCT

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of using intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT) to adjust the tilting of an intraocular lens (IOL) during implantation with intrascleral fixation.

SETTING

Kyorin University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.

DESIGN

Retrospective, case-control, single-center study.

METHODS

Thirty-seven eyes of 37 patients who had undergone pars plana vitrectomy with intrascleral fixation of an IOL by a single surgeon were retrospectively studied. The length of the externalized haptics was determined when the anterior surface of the IOL was parallel to the plane of the iris as observed by iOCT. The maximal IOL tilt relative to the visual axis and to the iris plane was measured by anterior segment OCT (CASIA2; Tomey Corp.).

RESULTS

Intraoperative crosssectional OCT (RESCAN 700: Carl Zeiss Meditec AG) scans were used to adjust the degree of IOL tilt in 23 eyes (iOCT group) and not used in 14 eyes (control group). The maximal angle of IOL tilt relative to the visual axis was significantly smaller in the iOCT group than that in the control group (5.45 ± 2.63 degrees vs 10.38 ± 10.48 degrees, P = .034). The maximal angle of the IOL tilt to the iris plane was also significantly smaller in the iOCT group than that in the control group (4.58 ± 1.86 degrees vs 9.60 ± 10.82 degrees; P = .040). The distance of decentration was greater in the iOCT group (0.56 ± 0.29 mm) than that of the control group (0.41 ± 0.41 mm, P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative OCT can be used to adjust the degree of IOL tilt to reduce the lenticular astigmatism during intrascleral fixation surgery.

Surgical outcomes and complications of sutureless needle-guided intrascleral intraocular lens fixation combined with vitrectomy

Purpose:

To analyze the surgical outcomes and complications of sutureless needle-guided intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) implantation (Yamane technique) combined with pars plana vitrectomy.

Methods:

Retrospective study of 47 eyes of 46 patients that underwent scleral fixation of IOL by the Yamane technique combined with 3-port pars plana vitrectomy. Demographic data, primary indications for surgery, history of trauma, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), duration of follow-up, and complications were analyzed.

Results:

Mean preoperative BCVA was 0.79 logMAR, which improved to 0.39 logMAR at mean 4.21 months (SD: 4.87 D) follow-up. Mean spherical equivalent pre and postoperative was + 7.64 D (SD: 7.74 D) and − 0.47 D (SD: 2.26 D), respectively. Early postoperative complications included hypotony with cyclodialysis cleft (n = 1; 2%), mild vitreous hemorrhage (n = 2; 4%), raised IOP (n = 2; 4%), and transient corneal edema (n = 2; 4%). Late complications included iris optic capture (n = 1; 2%), retinal detachment (n = 1; 2%), cystoid macular edema (CME; n = 2; 4%), IOL decentration (n = 1; 2%), and decentration and tilting of IOL (n = 1; 2%). Management of complications included laser treatment to cyclodialysis cleft, observation for vitreous hemorrhage, topical and oral IOP lowering agents for raised IOP. CME was managed with topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. One eye was subjected IOL refixation. The mean number of surgeries per eye was 1.04.

Conclusion:

Combining needle-guided intrascleral IOL implantation with vitrectomy allows management of other posterior segment complications in the same sitting while obviating the need for the second surgery. It provides satisfactory outcomes that are comparable to published studies. However, a longer follow-up will allow a better understanding of the potential advantages of this approach.

Scleral fixation using a hydrophilic four-haptic lens and polytetrafluoroethylene suture

To assess the safety of scleral fixation using the Akreos AO60 intraocular lens (IOL) and Gore-Tex suture. Prospective evaluation of 20 patients who underwent scleral fixation of an Akreos AO60 with Gore-Tex. Patients presenting with aphakia or dislocated IOL without capsular support were enrolled in the study. Main outcome measures included visual acuity, endothelial cell density, and postoperative complications over 6 months of follow-up. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) uncorrected logMAR visual acuity improved from 1.92 ± 0.23 (20/1600 Snellen equivalent) preoperatively to 0.80 ± 0.56 (20/125) at 6 months postoperatively (p < 0.001). Mean ± SD best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) logMAR was 0.43 ± 0.23 preoperatively and 0.37 ± 0.24 (20/50) at 3-6 months postoperatively (p = 0.312). The mean ± SD endothelial cell density was 1740.50 ± 522.92 cells/mm² and 1187.19 ± 493.00 cells/mm² (p < 0.001) pre and postoperatively, respectively. Mean ± SD postoperative spherical equivalent was - 1.12 ± 1.50D. Postoperative complications included exposure of suture in 40% of the patients, hypotony in 15%, ocular hypertension in 10%, transient vitreous hemorrhage in 10%, retinal detachment in 5%, and transient lens opacification in 5%. Scleral fixation with an Akreos AO60 and Gore-Tex appears generally safe. However, given the high incidence of suture erosion observed, the use of scleral flaps or rotating and burying the knots is recommended in order to reduce the risk of this complication.

Early Clinical Outcomes of Intrascleral Fixation Using an Intraocular Lens with Hook-Shaped Haptics

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to report on the early results of intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation using a hook-shaped haptic IOL (hsh-IOL).

Patients and Methods

We enrolled 27 consecutive eyes of 27 patients (mean age, 74±11.4 years) who underwent intrascleral IOL fixation with an hsh-IOL and were followed-up for 3 months postoperatively. The reasons for surgery included insufficient capsular support, including IOL dislocation, aphakia, or dislocated crystalline lens. The haptic of the hsh-IOL was externalized from the eye using forceps, and the hook was buried in the scleral tunnel. We investigated the preoperative and 3-month postoperative corrected visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial cell density, refractive prediction error, postoperative intraocular astigmatism, surgically induced astigmatism, and intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Results

The mean postoperative corrected VA (logMAR, 0.083±0.18) was significantly better than the mean preoperative value (0.42±0.60, p=0.0007). The 3-month postoperative mean absolute prediction error was 1.00±0.96 D. The mean IOL-induced astigmatism was 0.95±0.70 D. Further, the mean postoperative corneal endothelial cell count (2036±644 cells/mm²) was significantly lower than the preoperative value (2316±527 cells/mm²) (p=0.009). No patient had a 1-month postoperative IOP <5 mmHg or >25 mmHg. There were no intraoperative or vision-threatening complications, such as retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, or IOL dislocation, due to postoperative haptics misalignment.

Conclusion

Intrascleral IOL fixation using hsh-IOL is an effective option for eyes with insufficient capsular support.

Outcomes of a new suture technique for the treatment of dislocated intraocular lenses: locked loop on the haptic

PURPOSE

To evaluate surgical and refractive outcomes of a new sutured scleral fixation technique in the management of subluxated intraocular lenses (IOLs).

METHODS

Nineteen eyes treated with the new scleral fixation technique were included. The mean corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), postoperative refraction error, mean endothelial cell count (ECC), and complications were recorded. All patients were evaluated immediately postoperatively, at 1 and 7 days, and then at 1, 3, and 6 months.

RESULTS

The mean duration of follow-up of the patients was 10 months (range, 6-15 months). The mean CDVA was 0.41 ± 0.1 logMAR (logarithm of minimum angle of resolution) preoperatively and was 0.08 ± 0.07 logMAR postoperatively. The mean astigmatism was - 2.22 ± 1.86 D preoperative and was - 0.86 ± 0.58 D postoperative. The mean preoperative and postoperative ECC was 2455 ± 288 and 2352 ± 288, respectively. One patient (5.26%) experienced vitreous hemorrhage, and two (10.52%) experienced intraocular pressure elevation. IOL tilt and decentralization, conjunctival erosion, and cystoid macular edema were not observed in any eyes during follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This new IOL repositioning technique can be applied in a short surgical time and provides a stable IOL centration on long-term follow-up.

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Intraocular Lens Removal and Intrascleral Intraocular Lens Fixation with Trabeculectomy in a Patient with Dislocated Intraocular Lens and Elevated Intraocular Pressure

A 88-year-old female who was being treated for end-stage pseudoexfoliation syndrome was referred to our hospital for treatment of dislocated intraocular lens (IOL) and the elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and in the right eye (RE). At the first visit to our hospital, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.2 in the RE and 0.02 in the left eye (LE). IOP was 47 mm Hg in the RE and 21 mm Hg in the LE. Slit-lamp examination showed no abnormalities in anterior segments and dislocated IOL in the RE. Fundus photograph showed optic disc pallor in both eyes. We performed the combined therapy of flanged intrascleral IOL fixation with the double-needle technique and trabeculectomy. Throughout the follow-up period, BCVA slightly improved from 0.2 to 0.4 in the RE. The angle of tilt of the IOL was 6.6, 7.9, and 8.7° as measured by swept-source optical coherence tomography at 1, 4, and 6 months after the surgery, respectively. The IOP remained less than 10 mm Hg without having to administer any other glaucoma medications. Furthermore, any complications associated with the surgery were not confirmed.

Scleral tunnel with conjunctival autograft for rescue management of extruded haptic: Surgical technique and review of literature

Extrusion of haptic is a rare complication after intra-scleral haptic fixation of intraocular lens (SF-IOL). Various techniques described for its management such as autologous scleral patch, cauterization of exposed haptic, reattempting the glued IOL and IOL explant have their own limitations. Presently, we describe a simple rescue technique for management of such situations. In this method, after performing localized conjunctival peritomy, 2 mm long partial-thickness scleral tunnel is fashioned with an angled 20-guage microvitreoretinal blade 1.5 mm away from the limbus in line with pre-existing defective scleral flap underneath which the exposed haptic is tucked securely. Following this, conjunctival autograft (CAG) with fibrin glue application is undertaken to combat conjunctival fibrosis. In three patients, where this technique was performed, had well-tucked haptic and maintained visual acuity with no complications at 3-months follow-up. This technique is a useful method of tucking extruded haptic after SFIOL in eyes subjected to multiple previous surgeries.

Secondary Sutureless Posterior Chamber Lens Implantation with Two Specifically Designed IOLs: Iris Claw Lens versus Sutureless Trans-Scleral Plugs Fixated Lens

Background. The management of patients with aphakia and/or lack of capsular support remains debated. The sutureless posterior chamber IOL (PCIOL) fixation is a very useful surgical option. The purpose of the study was to compare the early outcomes as well as post-operative best corrected visual acuity, refractive errors and complications of two different techniques of sutureless PCIOL secondary implantation. Methods. Patients who underwent secondary implantation from December 2019 to January 2021 in the Department of Ophthalmology of Creteil Hospital, and in the Granville Ophthalmology Center, were retrospectively included. Eyes implanted with the iris claw lens (Artisan Aphakia IOL model 205, Ophtec BV, Groningen, The Netherlands) were included in group 1, and eyes implanted with a newly developed sutureless trans-scleral plugs fixated lens (STSPFL, Carlevale lens, Soleko, Pontecorvo, Italy) were included in group 2. Results. Twenty-two eyes of 22 patients were enrolled in group 1, and twenty eyes of 20 patients in group 2. No difference was found in visual acuity between two groups (0.35 +/− 0.29 logmar for group 1 and 0.23 +/− 0.51 logmar for group 2) (p = 0.15) at mean post-operative follow up (6.19 +/− 3.44 months for group 1 and 6.42 +/− 3.96 months for group 2) (p = 0.13). Both the mean refractive error (MRE) and induced astigmatism (IA) were greater in group 1 compared to group 2, respectively: the MRE was 0.99 +/− 0.57 vs. 0.46 +/− 0.36 (p < 0.01), and IA was 1.72 +/− 0.96 vs. 0.72 +/− 0.52 (p < 0.01). Conclusions. No significant differences in terms of the recovery of visual acuity were found between the two groups. Group 2 (STPFL) gives better results in our sample due to less post-operative induced astigmatism and less refractive error.

Intraocular lens extraction using the cartridge pull-through technique

ABSTRACT

Current intraocular lens (IOL) explantation techniques are limited to cutting the optic and removing the pieces through a small incision, or folding single piece acrylic IOLs using a two-handed technique. Poor execution of IOL explantation can result in injury to intraocular structures, including the corneal endothelium and iris. The minimally invasive "cartridge pull-through technique" was invented, using a cartridge for IOL implantation and novel forceps optimized for secure grasping of the IOL for removal. This method involved less manipulation in the anterior chamber, thereby reducing the risks of complications such as corneal and iris injuries. A "dropped IOL" lying on the retinal surface can be extracted directly without lifting it onto the iris first. The cartridge-pull through technique offers a more streamlined and potentially safer approach for IOL explantation.

Refractive outcome of trocar-assisted sutureless scleral fixation with 3-piece intraocular lenses

PURPOSE

Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation with a trocar-assisted sutureless scleral fixation technique is a relatively new IOL implantation approach for aphakic eyes. During this surgery, the intrascleral position of the haptics can change the location of the IOL optic and may alter the refractive outcome. This study aimed to evaluate the refractive outcome of this surgery.

METHODS

The files of 22 patients who had undergone IOL implantation with the trocar-assisted sutureless scleral fixation technique were retrospectively reviewed, and the patients were invited for final examination. IOL power was calculated with optical biometry (Lenstar LS900). IOL power calculations were performed according to formulas designed for in-the-bag IOL implantation. The final refractive error was determined with an autorefractometer (Topcon KR-1/RM-1).

RESULTS

This study included 14 patients (8 male, 6 female, mean age: 62.7 ± 18.7). There were no significant differences between the preoperative and postoperative corneal astigmatism values (p = 0.16). There were also no significant differences between the postoperative corneal and total astigmatism values (p = 0.44), confirming the absence of significant IOL tilt. The difference between the implanted IOLs and the calculated IOL power for emmetropia was 0.09 D ± 0.49 D (p = 0.52). Although emmetropia was targeted, the refractive outcome shifted to hyperopia (+ 0.85 D ± 1.15 D) and was significantly different from the refractive status calculated with optical biometry (p = 0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

The intrascleral fixation of IOLs results in increased posterior positioning of the IOL optic and can induce approximately 0.85 D of hyperopia if proper adjustments are not performed during IOL power calculations.

Long-Term Stability of Intraocular Lens with Trimmed or Untrimmed Haptics in Yamane Sutureless Intrascleral Fixation Technique

Background

In intraocular lens (IOL) sutureless intrascleral fixation using the Yamane technique, untrimmed haptics may be overlong in some cases due to varied haptic lengths and individual differences. However, whether trimming the haptic affects IOL stability remains unknown.

Material/Methods

Thirty-nine eyes of 39 patients who underwent Yamane sutureless intrascleral fixation surgery between October 2017 and February 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. Nineteen patients underwent surgery with untrimmed haptics and 20 patients with trimmed haptics. The slit-lamp examination, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal endothelial cell density (ECD), IOL position, and complications were assessed.

Results

The mean follow-up periods in the untrimmed and trimmed groups were 27.84±2.89 months and 27.85±2.41 months, respectively. The BCVA improved and ECD decreased in both groups postoperatively (all P<0.01). No significant differences were seen between the 2 groups in postoperative BCVA, postoperative ECD, IOL tilt at 3 months and 24 months, and IOL decentration at 3 months (all P>0.05). There were significant differences between the 2 groups in IOL decentration at 24 months (P<0.05). Compared with postoperative 3 months, both the postoperative IOL tilt and decentration at 24 months increased in the 2 groups (all P<0.01). Postoperative complications included IOL elevation (11% in the untrimmed group and 10% in the trimmed group), as well as haptic extrusion (16% in the untrimmed group).

Conclusions

The position of the IOL may change with time, but trimming the haptic to an optimum length tends to provide greater IOL stability.

Modified Technique for Scleral-Sutured Fixation with the Double Knots Technique for Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens: Short-Term Observation

Purpose

To evaluate the short-term safety and efficacy of a novel approach of utilizing the 9-0 looped polypropylene suture with double knots buried into the scleral groove and the scleral tunnel to minimize the risk of the suture erosion and suture knot exposure.

Design

Clinical-based retrospective study.

Methods

Records of consecutive patients who had anterior vitrectomy and scleral-fixated posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation between July 2018 and April 2020 with a minimum follow-up of 3 months were reviewed.

Results

This study enrolled a total of 21 eyes from 20 patients (15 male). These patients had a mean age of 58.52 ± 8.55 years and were followed for an average of 1.08 ± 0.58 years postoperatively. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from a preoperative mean of 0.43 ± 0.41 logMAR to a significantly higher mean 3-month postoperative value of 0.09 ± 0.21 logMAR (Z = -3.35, p < 0.01). There were no statistical differences between the preoperative and postoperative corneal endothelial cell density (p=0.71). The postoperative complications included transient increased intraocular pressure in 5 eyes (24%). No other complications were detected during the follow-up.

Conclusions

The modified technique proposed is a safe, effective, and reliable approach resulting in good visual outcomes. Our procedure might have the potential benefit to avoid suture-related complications in scleral-fixated IOL implantation. Trial registration. Retrospective case series study, not applicable.

Sutureless Scleral Fixated IOL: The "Catcher Pole" Technique

Purpose

To describe a new surgical technique for sutureless intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation with an adapted retinal scraper used as an instrument “the Catcher Pole” to retrieve the IOL haptic through a scleral tunnel.

Setting

Public Eye Hospital, Roma, Italy.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Twenty-one eyes from 19 patients who underwent sutureless intrascleral IOL fixation were studied. A standard three-piece posterior chamber IOL (PCIOL) was implanted in aphakia or rescued and fixated in cases of dislocated PCIOL. A 23 to 25 G retinal loop scraper (the “Catcher Pole“) was inserted through a 1.5 mm long tunneled sclerotomy performed on the horizontal meridian, to capture, hold and externalize the tip of the haptic of the IOL. A flange created with an handheld cautery on the externalized haptic tip prevents IOL slippage. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central corneal pachymetry (CCP), IOL tilt and complications were assessed.

Results

In twenty-one eyes of 19 patients, the mean preoperative BCVA was 0.61 logMAR units ±0.05 SD, and the mean postoperative BCVA improved significantly to 0.18 logMAR units at three months ±0.05 SD (P=0.002). The mean preoperative CCP was 610 µ ±17 SD and the mean postoperative CCP 623 µ ±16 SD, (P=0.73). In the subgroup that underwent IOL tilt evaluation, mean IOL tilt was 3.19±2.01. The postoperative complications included iris capture of the IOL in one eye (4,7%) and transient ocular hypertension in two eyes (9,4%).

Conclusions

The “Catcher Pole” sutureless intrascleral IOL fixation technique is easy to perform with reduced anterior chamber manipulations and achieves both anatomical and optical stability.

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27-gauge trocar-assisted sutureless intraocular lens fixation

Backgrounds

However there have been numerous investigations of intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation techniques, there is room for improvement in terms of simplifying complicated techniques and reducing the high levels of skill required. This study aimed to report a novel technique for sutureless intrascleral fixation of the IOL using retinal forceps with a 27-gauge trocar.

Methods

Nineteen eyes of 18 patients underwent intrascleral fixation of the IOL from July 2018 to September 2019 were enrolled in this study. A 27-gauge trocar formed 3-mm scleral tunnels positioned at 4 and 10 o’clock, 2 mm from the corneal limbus. We used a 3-piece IOL haptic grasped by a 27-gauge retinal forceps and pulled from the 27-gauge trocar. The IOL was fixed by making a flange. Main outcome measures were visual acuity, corneal endothelial cell density, IOL tilt, decentration, predicted error of refraction and complications.

Results

The 19 eyes were followed up for 1 month. The mean pre- and postoperative logMAR uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 1.06 ± 0.63 and 0.40 ± 0.26, respectively (p < 0.01), while the mean pre- and postoperative logMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.27 ± 0.51 and 0.06 ± 0.15, respectively (p = 0.09). The mean corneal endothelial cell density was 2406 ± 625 to 2004 ± 759 cells/mm² at 1 month (p = 0.13). The mean IOL tilt was 3.52 ± 3.00°, and the mean IOL decentration was 0.39 ± 0.39 mm. There was no correlation among IOL tilt, decentration and BCVA (p > 0.05). The mean prediction error of the target refraction was − 0.03 ± 0.93 D. The complications were vitreous hemorrhage (3 eyes), hyphema (1 eye), IOP elevation (1 eye), iris capture of the IOL (1 eye) and hypotony (2 eyes). No IOL dislocation occurred.

Conclusions

IOL intrascleral fixation with a flange achieved good IOL fixation and visual outcome in the scleral tunnels created with the 27-gauge trocar.

The forceps-needle: Combining needle and grasping functions in a single instrument

A new forceps-needle to facilitate intrascleral haptic fixation surgery is described. In an initial series of 10 cases, the forceps-needle was used to grasp and externalize the haptic of a 3-piece intraocular lens (IOL) for transscleral fixation. The site of perforation was marked at 180 degrees 2.0 mm away from the limbus. Then, the IOL with polypropylene haptics was folded and implanted partially into the anterior chamber. A transconjunctival, scleral tunnel of about 2.0 mm length parallel to the limbus was prepared with the forceps-needle on 1 side, with the second hand holding the leading haptic through a side-port incision. The end of the first haptic was grasped and externalized after which the end of the haptic was flanged. Subsequently, a second scleral tunnel was prepared with the forceps-needle, and the second haptic was externalized and flanged. All procedures could be performed without any intraoperative complication.

Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Between Intracapsular Implantation and Intrascleral Fixation Using the Same Model of Intraocular Lens

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes of intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation surgery with those of intracapsular IOL implantation in conventional cataract surgery.

Patients and Methods

Twenty-one eyes of 21 consecutive patients who underwent intrascleral IOL fixation (SF group) and 21 eyes of 21 patients who underwent IOL intracapsular implantation during cataract surgery (IN group) were retrospectively enrolled. For both groups, the same model of IOL was used in all cases. For all cases in the SF group, Yamane’s double-needle technique was performed.

Results

The mean corrected visual acuity (logMAR) after surgery was significantly better in the IN than in the SF group (−0.063 ± 0.12 vs 0.05 ± 0.14; p = 0.0083). The mean anterior chamber depth after surgery was significantly smaller in the IN than in the SF group (4.65 ± 0.23 mm vs 4.98 ± 0.61 mm; p = 0.0231). The amounts of tilt and decentration were also significantly smaller in the IN group (5.21°± 1.47° and 0.22 ± 0.13 mm, respectively, vs 8.8° ± 3.9° and 0.52 ± 0.35 mm, respectively; p = 0.0003 and p = 0.0007). The mean absolute refractive prediction error was significantly smaller in the IN than in the SF group (0.22 ± 0.17 D vs 0.86 ± 0.59 D; p = 0.0002).

Conclusion

The intrascleral IOL fixation surgery proved to be highly effective. However, its clinical outcomes were slightly inferior to those of IOL intracapsular implantation, and further improvement of this surgical technique may be needed.

Influence of sclerotomy size on intraocular lens tilt after intrascleral intraocular lens fixation

PURPOSE

To determine whether differences in sclerotomy size during intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation influence IOL tilt and visual acuity after surgery.

SETTING

University of Fukui Hospital and Japanese Red Cross Fukui Hospital, Japan.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

The study reviewed the records of patients who had intrascleral IOL fixation with transconjunctival 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy and a follow-up longer than 6 months. The preoperative and postoperative visual outcomes, degree of IOL tilt, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were statistically compared between the sclerotomy groups.

RESULTS

The study included 65 eyes (60 patients). Postoperatively, the maximum degree of IOL tilt was significantly smaller in the 24-gauge sclerotomy group than in the 30-gauge sclerotomy group (P = .003). The degree of IOL tilt was significantly correlated with the amount of postoperative IOL astigmatism (total astigmatism - corneal astigmatism) (P = .0001, R² = 0.23). There were no statistically significant differences in the preoperative or postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) or the complication rate between the sclerotomy groups.

CONCLUSION

A smaller sclerotomy for intrascleral IOL fixation was associated with greater IOL tilt and IOL astigmatism after surgery; however, this did not clinically or significantly affect the postoperative CDVA.

Sutureless intrascleral fixation of intraocular lens through self-sealing sclerotomy wounds using haptic externalization and reinternalization technique

In eyes with absent or insufficient capsule support, three-piece posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL) may be fixed to the sclera. Previous techniques involve the use of sutures, flaps, glue, needles, trocars, or intrascleral tunnels to fixate the distal tips of the haptics intrasclerally. Herein we describe a modified technique for the sutureless scleral fixation of a standard 3-piece PC IOL using self-sealing sclerotomies created with a crescent blade and a 20-gauge microvitreoretinal blade, and then reinserting the haptics to leave the tips inside the vitreous cavity. We believe the relative simplicity of this technique makes it widely applicable for the placement of an IOL with insufficient capsule support.

[Clinical Outcomes of Endoscope-Assisted 30-Gauge Single-Needle Technique for Intrascleral Intraocular Lens Fixation]

INTRODUCTION

We have developed an endoscope-assisted single-needle technique, which is an improvement of Yamane's double-needle technique of the intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation techniques. In this surgical procedure, the IOL is manipulated in the vitreous cavity, and the IOL haptic is externalized from the eye one by one with the aid of an ophthalmic endoscope. The purpose of this study was to report the postoperative visual function and safety of this new technique.

METHODS

Overall, 19 consecutive eyes (16 patients; mean age, 75.1 ± 9.6 years; mean follow-up period, 5.7 months) that underwent intrascleral IOL fixation surgery with our new technique were included in the study. Manifest refraction, uncorrected/corrected visual acuity, and corneal endothelial cell density were measured before and after surgery. Tilt and decentration of IOL were analyzed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

The mean absolute prediction error (spherical equivalent) was 0.82 ± 0.52. The mean postoperative best-corrected visual acuity had significantly improved at the final visits (p = 0.02). No significant differences in the mean corneal endothelial cell density were observed between the first (2,232 ± 751 cells/mm2) and final (2,099 ± 649 cells/mm2) visits (p = 0.35). The mean IOL tilt was 8.1 ± 3.2°. There were no vision-threatening complications, such as retinal detachment, endophthalmitis, or IOL dislocation, during or after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

The endoscope-assisted single-needle technique is a safe and effective method of intrascleral IOL fixation surgery.

Efficacy of 25G vitrectomy combined with intrascleral intraocular lens implantation

We investigated the clinical efficacy and safety of 25-gauge (G) vitrectomy combined with intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. A 25G vitrectomy combined with intrascleral IOL implantation was performed on 39 patients diagnosed with lens dislocation, IOL dislocation, or aphakia. Changes in visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of corneal endothelial cells, location of IOL, anatomic success of IOL, recurrence rate of IOL dislocation, and complications were analyzed. One week postoperatively, the IOL was in the centered position in all patients (100%), and 1 month postoperatively, it was centered in 36 patients (92.3%). IOL haptics were exposed under the conjunctiva in one patient (2.6%). Reimplantation of IOL for IOL dislocation was required in two patients (5.1%). Three to six months postoperatively, the IOLs were in the optimum position in 36 patients (92.3%). There were significant differences between the average logarithm of minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively and that before surgery (P < .05). The average IOP at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively was significantly lower than the preoperative IOP (P < .05). A 25G vitrectomy combined with intrascleral IOL implantation is effective and safe for the treatment of eyes without capsular support.

Early Experience with Two Techniques of Intrascleral Intraocular Lens Fixation

BACKGROUND

We compared our early experience of visual outcomes, operation time, and complications for two techniques of intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation: T-fixation and flanged IOL fixation.

METHODS

Data from patients who underwent scleral fixation of an IOL between October 2017 and December 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. Intraoperative time for fixation steps, corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) rate reduction, and intraoperative/postoperative complications were compared between T-fixation (Group T, n = 4) and flanged IOL fixation (Group F, n = 6).

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 73.7 ± 13.0 years. Intraoperative time was significantly longer for Group T (27.5 ± 9.7 min) than for Group F (13.0 ± 3.8 min; P=0.03, Mann-Whitney U-test). Intraoperative complications included iris damage from the 30-G needle in 2 eyes in Group F. Postoperative complications included iris capture by the IOL in 1 eye in Group F. No incidents of postoperative retinal detachment or IOL dislocation were identified. The ECD reduction rate did not significantly differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Both techniques yielded favorable surgical outcomes. Flanged IOL fixation might be superior because of its shorter intraoperative time but could initially be technically difficult because of the need to perform angled sclerotomy with a 30-G needle to avoid iris injury.

Incidence and management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after pars plana vitrectomy and sutureless scleral-fixated intraocular lens

Purpose

To evaluate the incidence, risk factor(s), and surgical outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with sutureless scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation (SFIOL).

Methods

Records of patients (1311 eyes, 1234 patients) who underwent PPV and sutureless SFIOL from 2017 to 2018 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The indications SFIOL were subluxated lens (33.7%), dislocated IOL (21.7%), surgical aphakia (20.1%), congenital lens subluxation (11.1%), nucleus drop (6.9%), and post-open globe injury (OGI) repair (6.5%). History of closed-globe injury (CGI) was present in 27.2% eyes.Twenty-two eyes (1.7%) developed RRD. The incidence of RRD in eyes, which underwent SFIOL surgery for subluxated lens, dislocated IOL, surgical aphakia, congenital lens subluxation, nucleus drop, and post-OGI repair was 1.4% (n = 6), 2.5% (n = 7), 1.1% (n = 3), 3.4% (n = 5), 0 and 1.2% (n = 1), respectively (P = 0.382). The incidence of RRD in eyes with and without CGI was 1.7% each (P = 0.996).Twenty-one eyes underwent RD surgery. Retinal reattachment was achieved in 76.2% eyes, while 66.7% eyes required only one surgery. The eyes in which retina failed to reattach had a high grade of proliferative vitreoretinopathy present at the time of presentation. Final best-corrected visual acuity of ≥20/60 and <20/60 to ≥20/200 and <20/200 was seen in 38.1%, 19.0%, and 42.9% eyes.

Conclusion

Eyes with the congenital subluxated lens are at a marginally higher risk of developing post-SFIOL RRD. The surgical outcome of RD surgery in these eyes is good.

Flanged intraocular lens fixation via 27-gauge trocars using a double-needle technique decreases surgical wounds without losing its therapeutic effect

PURPOSE

Intraocular lens (IOL) fixation using a sutureless 27-gauge needle intrascleral IOL implantation technique requires six surgical wounds. We developed a modified technique using two 27-gauge trocars for vitrectomy and indwelling flanged IOL haptics to reduce the number of surgical wounds.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Hyogo College of Medicine.

DESIGN

This retrospective study enrolled 54 patients who had undergone IOL scleral fixation between January 2016 and April 2019.

METHODS

Patients who underwent IOL scleral fixation and were observed for >12 weeks were analysed using medical record data. Before October 2017, patients underwent normal flanged IOL scleral fixation. Between November 2017 and April 2019, patients underwent the modified method (flanged IOL via 27-gauge trocars with double-needle technique). Primary end-point was superiority or non-inferiority of modified IOL scleral fixation compared with normal IOL scleral fixation for visual acuity (VA). Changes in corneal endothelium cell number, refractivity, astigmatisms and surgery-related complications, were secondary end-points.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between groups. Raw VA and best collected VA (BCVA) were significantly improved in all eyes (p-). There were no statistical significances in raw VA, BCVA and surgery-related complications between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of the modified technique were not inferior compared with the original technique although it was less invasive. Therefore, flanged IOL fixation via trocars using a double-needle technique is a useful technique for IOL implantation.

Modified Intraocular Lens Intrascleral Fixation Technique Using Two Vitrectomy Ports as Lens Haptic Fixation Sites

Introduction

We developed a new technique that uses two of the vitrectomy ports as intraocular lens (IOL) haptic fixation sites and compared that with a conventional T-fixation method.

Methods

A total of 33 eyes were retrospectively divided into the port-fixation (n=21) and conventional (n=12) groups. For the port-fixation group, supranasal and inferotemporal trocars (25-gauge) were placed in the center of a T-shaped lamellar scleral incision 2 mm from the corneal limbus and a supratemporal trocar at 3.5 mm. Following a vitrectomy, along with lens or IOL extraction as needed, the infusion cannula was changed from an inferotemporal to supratemporal trocar. The first IOL haptic and trocar were then simultaneously withdrawn from the eye by grasping with vitreoretinal forceps, with the same performed for the second IOL haptic and trocar, after which the infusion cannula was removed. In the conventional group, 2 T-shaped scleral incisions and three trocars were separately placed.

Results

Postoperatively, transient ocular hypotension and hypertension were observed in a few eyes in both groups. At 6 months after surgery, astigmatism was 1.71±1.13 D in the port-fixation group and 2.21±1.78 D in the conventional group (p=0.40, t-test).

Conclusion

This new technique may be effective because of the lower number of scleral wounds.

Sutureless intrascleral fixation using different three-piece posterior chamber intraocular lenses: a literature review of surgical techniques in cases of insufficient capsular support and a retrospective multicentre study

We present a literature review of surgical techniques of intraocular lens placement in eyes with insufficient capsular support, focusing on the most recent publications, together with a retrospective multicentre consecutive case series analysis of 103 eyes undergoing pars plana vitrectomy and sutureless intrascleral (SIS) fixation of a standard three-piece PCIOL. Many different approaches appear in the literature without any specific procedure achieving superior outcomes. Advantages and disadvantages vary between techniques. Common complications related to IOL fixation techniques were as follow: anterior chamber IOL: transient/permanent corneal oedema (9-66.6%), uveitis (1.1-39.3%); iris-fixated IOL: pupil ovalization (16-47.7%); and sutured scleral-fixated IOL: suture breakage/exposure (6.1-11%), vitreous haemorrhage: (5.5-16.6%). In our retrospective case series, indications for surgery were postoperative aphakia in 50 eyes (49%), IOL dislocation in 38 eyes (37%) and natural lens dislocation in 15 eyes (14%). Scleral tunnels for haptic fixation were created with (28 eyes, 27.2%) or without (75 eyes, 72.8%) 25 gauge trocar cannulas. Complications included transient hypotony (n = 20; 19.4%), corneal decompensation (n = 7; 6.7%), IOL dislocation (n = 6; 5.8%), cystoid macular oedema (n = 5; 4.8%), vitreous haemorrhage (n = 4; 3.8%) and retinal detachment (n = 4; 3.8%). Mean best corrected visual acuity improved from logMAR 0.65 to 0.36 at the final visit (p = 0.001). In conclusion, SIS fixation provides good anatomical and functional outcomes; however, complications can occur. The number of surgical approaches for IOL dislocation described in the literature indicates that optimal treatment remains to be found.

A Case of Repeating Transient Increase in Intraocular Pressure by Instability of an Intraocular Lens Implanted in the Capsular Bag

We observed repeated episodes of rapid increases in intraocular pressure (IOP) considered to be caused by an in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) instability in a patient with an implanted IOL. As acute glaucoma attack-like increase in IOP was noted in the left eye on November 8, she was admitted to Wakayama Medical University Hospital. The findings at the first examination included an IOP of 62 mm Hg, instability of a PMMA one-piece IOL, shallow anterior chamber, narrow angle, moderate mydriasis, and loss of pupillary light reaction in the left avitreous eye. On November 15, a 6-mm Hg increase in IOP was observed during 60-min dark room prone provocative testing. After the first examination, the patient perceived pain and reduced visual acuity of the left eye and emergently consulted our hospital twice. Despite miosis, normalization of the anterior chamber depth and IOP with widening of the angle were achieved by resting in the supine position. These episodes were thought to be caused by instability and anterior shift of the IOL. On January 17, 2018, suture fixation of the in-the-bag IOL was performed. The IOL was fixed by transscleral suturing of the bilateral supporting parts to the sclera. Recurrence of sudden ophthalmalgia, instability of the in-the-bag IOL, and an increase in IOP have not been observed for 1 year after surgical treatment. Instability of an in-the-bag IOL caused repeated acute angle-closure glaucoma-like attacks. The situation was well treated by suturing and fixing the haptics of IOL to the sclera.

Comparison of Different IOL Types in the Flanged IOL Fixation Technique

Purpose

To compare short-term clinical outcomes between two different intraocular lens (IOL) types in the flanged IOL fixation technique.

Methods

This study was a retrospective case series and included the patients who underwent flanged IOL fixation between June 2017 and July 2018 at the Hiroshima University Hospital. Two different 3-piece IOLs (NX-70 and PN6A) were used. Recipients of NX-70 and PN6A IOLs were classed into groups 1 (15 eyes) and 2 (25 eyes), respectively. Patient characteristics, surgical results, and postoperative complications were analyzed. We excluded patients with a postoperative follow-up of <1 month.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 13.3 ± 11.7 weeks. The postoperative best corrected visual acuity, in logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), was 0.10 ± 0.33 in group 1 and 0.26 ± 0.42 in group 2. The mean operation times for groups 1 and 2 were 11.2 ± 4.54 minutes and 7.00 ± 2.20 minutes, respectively (p=0.0024). Detachment of the IOL haptic from the optic during surgery occurred in four eyes in group 2 (16%), but did not occur in group 1. Iris capture of the optic was observed in 3 of the 13 eyes (23%) without a peripheral iridotomy in group 2. No peripheral iridotomies were performed on group-1 eyes, but iris capture did not occur in that group.

Conclusions

There was a trend to fewer intraoperative and postoperative complications when using NX-70 IOLs. On the other hand, PN6A IOLs was easy to maneuver within the anterior chamber, and the operation time was shorter when using PN6A IOLs. Selection of optimal IOLs for flanged IOL fixation necessitates an understanding of their characteristics in terms of intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Double-Needle Yamane Repositioning of a Previous Yamane Fixation

We describe a case of anteriorly dislocated, Yamane-fixated secondary intraocular lens (IOLs) with pigmentary dispersion syndrome. The patient presented with significant visual impairment and elevated intraocular pressure despite being maximally treated with all topical antihypertensive medications. The iris-IOL touch was confirmed by ultrasound biomicroscopy, and fundus examination revealed evidence of pigment granules on the optic disc. The previous Yamane-fixated secondary IOL was repositioned using a double-needle adaptation of Yamane technique and Kim's modification of scleral-fixated IOLs. To our knowledge, this is the first ever documented case of double-needle Yamane technique of a previous Yamane-fixated eye. In cases of inadequate capsular support, the development of new surgical techniques for the fixation of IOL continues to improve the safety and efficacy of these complicated surgeries.

A modified intrascleral intraocular lens fixation technique with fewer anterior segment manipulations: 27-gauge needle-guided procedure with built-in 8-0 absorbable sutures

Background

To report a modified surgical technique for intrascleral intraocular lens (IOL) fixation with fewer anterior segment manipulations in eyes lacking sufficient capsular support.

Methods

Eyes from 14 patients who underwent 27-gauge needle-guided intrascleral IOL fixation with built-in 8–0 absorbable sutures were studied. The 8–0 absorbable sutures were inserted into 27-gauge round needles and used to create sclerotomies at the 4 o’clock and 10 o’clock positions under the scleral flap. The sutures were used to tie knots at the end of each haptic and guide haptic externalization through the sclerotomy. After externalization, a sufficient flange was created at the end of each haptic and fixed under the scleral flaps. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal endothelial cell density (ECD), IOL tilt and decentration, previous surgery history, and complications were determined.

Results

Fourteen cases were analyzed. The majority of eyes exhibited an improvement in the BCVA after surgery. When comparing the last follow-up to preoperative visual acuity, the mean change in BCVA was + 26.32 letters (p = 0.011). Postoperative complications included postoperative hypotony in 3 eyes, ocular hypertension in 2 eyes. No cases of postoperative cystoid macular edema (CME), vitreous hemorrhage (VH), IOL dislocation, or endophthalmitis were observed.

Conclusions

The 27-gauge needle-guided intrascleral IOL fixation technique with built-in 8–0 absorbable sutures is easy to perform with fewer anterior chamber manipulations and achieves both anatomical and optical stability.