Centration and fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. An analysis of explanted autopsy eyes

Intraocular Pressure-Lowering Effect of Intraocular Lens Refixation in Patients with Elevated Intraocular Pressure Due to Intraocular Lens Subluxation

Background and Objectives: To evaluate the surgical outcomes of intraocular lens (IOL) refixation with vitrectomy in patients with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) due to IOL subluxation. Materials and Methods: Patients with elevated IOP due to IOL subluxation who had undergone IOL refixation with vitrectomy between 1 June 2013 and 31 December 2023 were retrospectively evaluated. The primary outcome measure was surgical success or failure. Surgical success was defined as a reduction of ≥20% in the preoperative IOP or IOP ≤ 21 mmHg (criterion A), IOP ≤ 18 mmHg (criterion B), or IOP ≤ 15 mmHg (criterion C). Reoperation, loss of light perception, and hypotony were considered as surgical failure. The IOP, number of glaucoma medications used, postoperative complications, and visual acuity were evaluated as the secondary outcomes. The surgical outcomes were compared between the glaucoma and ocular hypertension (OH) groups. Results: At 12 months postoperatively, the probability of success was 72.5%, 54.1%, and 28.4% using criterion A, B, and C, respectively, and the mean IOP and mean number of glaucoma medications used had decreased significantly (p < 0.01 and p = 0.03, respectively). Furthermore, the cumulative success rate was significantly higher in the OH group than in the glaucoma (100% vs. 47.4%; p < 0.01) when using criterion A. Additional glaucoma surgery was required only in the glaucoma group. Conclusions: IOL refixation surgery significantly decreases the IOP and number of glaucoma medications required in patients with elevated IOP due to IOL subluxation. Thus, IOL refixation surgery alone without glaucoma surgery might be effective as the primary procedure in such patients.

Indications, Complications, and Early Postoperative Course of Recovery of Intraocular Lens Exchange Surgery: a Single-Center Retrospective Study

PURPOSE

To analyze the indications, complications, and early course of recovery of intraocular lens (IOL) exchange surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Records of patients who underwent IOL exchange during a 6-year period at a tertiary referral center were reviewed and the indications and complications after surgical intervention were analyzed. Their effects on postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), use of IOP-lowering medications, and refractive cylindrical power were assessed.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-one eyes (165 patients) were investigated. The most frequent indication for IOL exchange was lens dislocation in 163 eyes (95.32%). The main causes of IOL dislocation were pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) in 98 eyes (57.31%) and complications during cataract surgery in 40 eyes (23.39%). During IOL exchange, an anterior iris-claw fixation was performed in 159 eyes (92.98%). After significant initial deterioration to 1.59 ± 1.08 logMAR on postoperative day 1 (p ≤ 0.001), the CDVA recovered to preoperative levels within 28 days. A significant decrease in IOP was observed on postoperative day 1 (p = 0.04). The most common postoperative complications were corneal edema in 114 eyes (66.67%) and vitreous hemorrhage in 67 eyes (39.18%).

CONCLUSION

The high early postoperative prevalence of corneal edema and intraocular hemorrhage was found to affect visual recovery after IOL exchange, causing a significant initial deterioration of CDVA and a delay of full visual recovery. These findings suggest that surgical approaches minimizing the risk of this type of complications should be favored.

Capsular tension ring as protective measure against in-the-bag dislocations after cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To assess the influence of capsular tension ring (CTR) implantation on the development of in-the-bag (ITB) dislocations after cataract surgery.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology Graz, Graz, Austria.

DESIGN

Single-center, retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

The medical records of patients who underwent cataract operation between 1996 and 2017 were analyzed. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was used to assess the influence of CTR implantation and other predisposing factors (pseudoexfoliation [PEX], age, retinitis pigmentosa, sex, zonular weakness, uveitis, high myopia, and intraocular lens design and material) on ITB dislocations.

RESULTS

ITB dislocations were found in 111 (0.16%) of 68199 eyes (46 632 patients). In the multivariate analysis adjusted for other predisposing risk factors, a CTR implantation was associated with a lower risk of an ITB dislocation (hazard ratio [HR], 0.29; 95% CI, 0.11-0.80; P = .017). In eyes with PEX, a CTR implantation was associated with an HR of 0.16 (95% CI, 0.04-0.70; P = .015), whereas eyes without PEX had an HR of 0.80 (95% CI, 0.14-4.41; P = .793). A CTR implantation in eyes with zonular weakness resulted in a potentially lower risk (HR, 0.37; 95% CI, 0.12-1.12; P = .078).

CONCLUSIONS

According to the dataset, implantation of a CTR was a protective measure against an ITB dislocation. Especially in patients with zonular weakness and PEX, the CTR implantation was association with a lower risk of ITB dislocations. In patients without PEX, no association was established.

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.

Intraocular lens explantation following cataract surgery: Indications, techniques, and video demonstrations

As techniques for modern cataract surgery have expanded and premium intraocular lens (IOL) use is now widespread, patient expectations are high. The need for IOL explantation, whilst still low, remains an ongoing issue. Intraocular lens explantation can be challenging for a number of reasons and as such we have introduced an additional technique to add to the surgeon's repertoire. Bimanual haptic stripping of fibrosis at the specific area where the haptic is adherent to the capsular bag is an effective strategy to aid in dissection of haptics without compromising the capsule or zonules. Given the challenges associated with IOL explantation, newly designed IOLs need to avoid these "sticking points" at which the IOLs interact with the fibrosed capsule. Techniques we have evolved and which are described below should assist anterior segment surgeons to facilitate IOL removal in an efficient and safe way.

Late in-the-bag intraocular lens dislocation

This review aimed to evaluate the cumulative incidence, patient characteristics, predisposing conditions, and treatment outcomes for late in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation. Literature searches in PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, and Cochrane Library Central database identified 1 randomized clinical trial, 1 prospective case series, 2 prospective cohort studies, and 36 retrospective studies of this condition, which showed that the cumulative incidence was 0.5% to 3%, it occurred on average 6 to 12 years after cataract surgery, and mean patient age was 65 to 85 years. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome, myopia, and previous vitreoretinal surgery were the most common predisposing conditions. Studies indicated that IOL repositioning and IOL exchange provided similar visual outcomes and were equally safe. The long-term visual outcome seemed satisfactory. However, the quality of evidence regarding treatment was in general quite low. More studies of late in-the-bag IOL dislocation are needed, and in particular, different surgical techniques should be included in high-quality clinical trials.

The Aravind Pseudoexfoliation Study: 5-Year Postoperative Results. The Effect of Intraocular Lens Choice and Capsular Tension Rings

PURPOSE

We compared rates of intraocular lens (IOL) decentration, neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet capsulotomy for posterior capsule opacification (PCO), and visual acuity (VA) in eyes with and without pseudoexfoliation (PEX) 5 years after undergoing cataract surgery.

DESIGN

Prospective comparative interventional study.

METHODS

This multicenter study population included 1 eye of both 930 cataract patients with and 470 cataract patients without uncomplicated PEX (no small pupils or phacodonesis) all undergoing phacoemulsification by experienced Aravind Eye Care System surgeons. Eyes were randomized to either 1- or 3-piece intraocular lenses (IOLs). PEX eyes were also randomized to either receive or not receive a capsule tension ring. The main outcome measures included IOL decentration and PCO. Secondary outcomes included postoperative best-corrected VA.

RESULTS

Follow-up was 86.2% in the PEX group and 86.7% in the control group at 5 years. The PEX group was older (P < .001) and had more men (P = .01). IOL decentration at 5 years was equally prevalent in PEX and control eyes (1.0% vs 1.1%, respectively, P = .8). Neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet posterior capsulotomy rates for PCO were similar in the PEX group when compared with control subejcts (5.3% compared with 3.2%, respectively, P = .07). Best corrected VA was better at baseline and years 2 and 3 in the control group (P = .0001, P = .0005, and P = .02); however, there was no difference in BCVA at years 1, 4, and 5 between the PEX and control groups (P = .09, P = .29, and P = .5).

CONCLUSION

In a large-scale, long-term, prospective comparative study of cataract surgery in eyes with uncomplicated PEX, the risks of IOL decentration and PCO were low and comparable to that in control subjects. When approaching cataract surgery in eyes with relatively uncomplicated PEX, neither IOL choice (1- vs 3-piece acrylic IOL) nor the presence/absence of a capsule tension ring affects outcomes at 5 years.

Surgical management of intraocular lens dislocation: A meta-analysis

Purpose

To compare the efficacy and safety of intraocular lens (IOL) repositioning and IOL exchange for the treatment of patients with IOL dislocation.

Methods

We systematically searched for relevant publications in English or Chinese in MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, WHO International Clinical Trial Registration Platform, Clinical Trial.gov, China Biology Medicine Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database and grey literature sources. Study quality was assessed using the STROBE template for observational studies and the Cochrane template for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Data were meta-analyzed using RevMan 5.3.

Results

The review included 14 English-language studies reporting 1 RCT and 13 retrospective case series involving 1,082 eyes. Average follow-up time was 13.7 months. Pooled analysis of 10 studies showed that the two procedures had a similarly effect on best corrected visual acuity (MD -0.00, 95%CI: -0.08 to 0.08, P = 0.99). Pooled analysis of nine studies showed no significant difference in incidence of IOL redislocation (RR 2.12, 95%CI 0.85 to 5.30, P = 0.11); pooled analysis of seven studies showed greater extent of incidence of cystoid macular edema in IOL exchange (RR 0.47, 95%CI 0.21 to 1.30, P = 0.06). Pooled analysis of three studies showed greater extent of incidence of anterior vitrectomy in IOL exchange (RR 0.11, 95%CI 0.04 to 0.33, P<0.0001). Pooled analysis of two studies showed greater postoperative spherical equivalents in IOL repositioning (MD 1.02, 95%CI 0.51 to 1.52, P<0.0001). pooled analysis suggested no significant differences between the two procedures in terms of intraocular pressure, endothelial cell density, surgically induced astigmatism, or incidence of retinal detachment, intraocular hemorrhage or pupillary block.

Conclusion

IOL repositioning and exchange are safe and effective procedures for treating IOL dislocation. Neither procedure significantly affects best corrected visual acuity and IOL redislocation. IOL exchange was superior to repositioning in terms of postoperative SE, but IOL repositioning was associated with lower incidence of anterior vitrectomy, potentially lower incidence of cystoid macular edema.

Long-term clinical results and scanning electron microscopic analysis of the aspheric, hydrophobic, acrylic intraocular lens CT LUCIA 611P(Y)

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of a novel designed hydrophobic, acrylic, monofocal, fully preloaded intraocular lens (IOL; CT LUCIA 611P) 1 year after implantation. Scanning electron microscopic analysis regarding the optic-haptic junction and sharp edges of the IOL was performed.

Patients and methods

This is a noninterventional, observational prospective study of cataract patients who underwent implantation of the CT LUCIA 611P. Ninety-six eyes of 54 subjects were enrolled. Follow-up included visual acuity assessment, slit lamp examination with special focus on appearance of glistenings and evaluation of posterior capsule opacification (PCO). Scanning electron microscopic analysis of the new designed optic-haptic junction and edges of the IOL was performed.

Results

Best-corrected distance visual acuity increased from mean 0.48 logMAR (range 0.86-0.34) preoperatively to mean 0.02 logMAR (range 0.14 to -0.10) 1 year after surgery. Thirty-eight of 42 subjects' eyes (90.5%), which underwent bilateral surgery with implantation of the IOL, never required glasses for distance again, while 4 (9.5%) required glasses only in rare cases (eg, driving at night). The spherical equivalent was within ±0.50 D in 88 of 96 subjects (91.7%) and within ±0.75 D in 96.9% of cases. Target refraction ±1.00 D was achieved in 100% of subject eyes. No glistenings were reported in any case. From the surgeons' perspective, the wider, thicker optic-haptic transition of the IOL resulted in significantly increased stiffness, which enabled improved centering of the IOL and enhanced rotational stability and refractive predictability and stability and PCO prevention.

Conclusion

The results of this long-term observational study demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the IOL. Because of the completely new designed thicker and stiffer optic-haptic junction regarding improved characteristics of the IOL (stability in the capsular bag), some special attention has to be addressed to the slightly different behavior of the lens during implantation and unfolding process.

Patient and Surgeon Satisfaction Levels after Using an Acrylic, Hydrophobic, Monofocal IOL and the Malyugin Ring in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome Patients

Purpose

The purpose of this prospective analysis was to evaluate the patient and surgeon satisfaction levels after using a fully preloaded acrylic, hydrophobic, monofocal “premium” IOL in pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

Materials and Methods

42 eyes of twenty-eight patients with progressed cataract formation and pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXF) or pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and best corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA) between 0.30–1.00 logMAR were enrolled. After a detailed preexamination, they underwent phacoemulsification and implantation of the acrylic, hydrophobic, heparin-coated, single-piece, monofocal intraocular lens (CT LUCIA 601P, Zeiss, Germany) with 360° square edge and ultraclear purity aspheric ZO optic. We evaluated the visual performance of the IOL and the patient satisfaction. We also evaluated the intraoperative handling of the injector and the behavior of the IOL in these complicated cases (PXF).

Results

The BCDVA increased from mean 0.48 logMAR (range 0.30–1.00 logMAR) preoperatively to −0.05 ± 0.13 logMAR postoperatively. The mean IOL power was 23.5 D (range 16.5–27.5 D). The target refraction using the Haigis formula within ±0.5 D was reached by 92.9% (n=39) and by 100% (n=42) within 1.0 D of all cases, respectively. Patient satisfaction was very high, and no halos or glare were reported in any case. The fully preloaded injector system enabled an easy IOL preparation and safe implantation.

Conclusion

Our results show that the implantation of the fully preloaded CT LUCIA 601P (Zeiss, Germany) is safe and enhances OR workflow in complicated cases as pseudoexfoliation. In these cases, an adapted approach (special preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative regime) with considering possible complications is necessary to achieve best outcomes.

Calculation of iris-claw IOL power for correction of late in-the-bag IOL complex dislocation

Background

To assess the constants and formula for aphakia correction with iris-claw IOLs to achieve the best refractive status in cases of late in-the-bag IOL complex dislocation.

Methods

A literature search was performed. The following data were obtained: Iris-claw IOL model, Iridal or retroiridal enclavation, A-constant, ultrasound or optical biometry, formula employed and refractive outcomes. Acceptable emmetropia was considered if the resulting spherical equivalent (SE) was within ±1.00 D.

Results

The majority of the studies used SRK/T formula (66.6%). The 88.9% of the reports obtained a SE within ±1.00 D. Using A-115 for ultrasound biometry and A-115.7 for optical biometry and SRK/T formula, the emmetropia (±1.00 D) of SE, was able to get near 100% of reported cases over the pupil implantation. However, the emmetropia decreased to 80% when the enclavation is retropupilar using the same formula. The A-constant can vary from 116.7 to 117.5 for retropupilar enclavation.

Conclusions

Using A-115 for ultrasound biometry and A-115.7 for optical biometry and SRK/T formula, ±1.00 D of SE, is able to get near 100% of cases. Nevertheless, ±1.00 D of SE decreased to 80% of the cases when the enclavation is retropupilar.

Glaucoma and Intraocular Pressure in Patients Operated for Late In-the-bag Intraocular Lens Dislocation: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PURPOSE

To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) and IOP-lowering treatment requirements in patients with late in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation operated with 2 different methods, and to assess whether an IOP decrease after surgery can be expected.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, parallel-group clinical trial.

METHODS

In our university clinic, 104 patients (eyes) were randomly assigned to IOL repositioning by scleral suturing (n = 54) or IOL exchange with a retropupillar iris-claw lens (n = 50). The main outcome measure was 6-month postoperative IOP change.

RESULTS

Overall IOP was 18.0 ± 6.2 mm Hg before surgery and 15.7 ± 4.8 mm Hg 6 months after surgery (P < .001). IOP changed by -1.2 ± 5.8 mm Hg (P = .18) in the Repositioning group and -3.8 ± 6.4 mm Hg (P < .001) in the Exchange group (group difference: P = .05). Before surgery, 62 patients had either preexisting glaucoma (n = 39) or high IOP (≥22 mm Hg) with suspected glaucoma (n = 23), of whom several required preoperative IOP-lowering treatment. In the postoperative period, 28% and 21% of the patients in each operation group, respectively, required IOP-lowering treatment with glaucoma medications added, adjunctive laser trabeculoplasty, cyclodiode laser, or filtering surgery. Only 0 and 3 patients, respectively, discontinued their IOP-lowering medication.

CONCLUSIONS

This trial showed an IOP decrease after late in-the-bag IOL dislocation surgery that seemed to be more pronounced with IOL exchange. However, associated high IOP was not resolved by dislocation surgery in many patients, and increased IOP-lowering treatment in the postoperative course was commonly required.

Late In-the-Bag Intraocular Lens Dislocation: A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Lens Repositioning and Lens Exchange

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of 2 operation methods for late in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, parallel-group surgical trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients referred to Oslo University Hospital (tertiary referral center).

METHODS

We randomly assigned 104 patients (104 eyes) either to IOL repositioning by scleral suturing (n = 54) or to IOL exchange with retropupillary fixation of an iris-claw IOL (n = 50). One surgeon performed all operations. Patients were evaluated comprehensively before surgery, and most patients (82%) attended an examination 6 months after surgery.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) 6 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean postoperative BCVA was 0.24±0.29 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) units (range, -0.18 to 1.16 logMAR) in the repositioning group and 0.35±0.54 logMAR (range, -0.20 to 3.0 logMAR) in the exchange group (P = 0.23). A BCVA of 20/40 or better (Snellen) was reached by 61% and 62% of the patients, respectively (P = 0.99). The mean postoperative corneal cylinder was 1.2±1.0 and 1.2±0.8 diopters, respectively (P = 0.84), and the postoperative endothelial cell density changes were -3±10% (P = 0.07) and -10±14% (P = 0.001), respectively (group difference, P = 0.04). Repositioning had a longer mean surgical time than exchange (P < 0.001). There were 2 (4%) and 0 cases of perioperative fluid misdirection syndrome, respectively. Postoperative complications were intraocular pressure (IOP) increase (n = 12), cystoid macular edema (CME; n = 3), and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (n = 1) in the repositioning group, and IOP increase (n = 9), pupillary block (n = 1), choroidal effusion (n = 2), CME (n = 4), and redislocation (n = 1) in the exchange group.

CONCLUSIONS

We found satisfactory and not significantly different outcomes for BCVA 6 months after surgery in the 2 groups. Both operation methods seemed safe, with low frequencies of serious perioperative and postoperative complications. However, some of the observed differences in complications should be taken into consideration when selecting the most suitable method in clinical practice.

Epidemiology, Etiology, and Prevention of Late IOL-Capsular Bag Complex Dislocation: Review of the Literature

Posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) subluxation is uncommon but represents one of the most serious complications following phacoemulsification. Late spontaneous IOL-capsular bag complex dislocation is defined as occurring three months or later following cataract surgery. Unlike early IOL dislocation, late spontaneous IOL dislocation is due to a progressive zonular dehiscence and contraction of the capsular bag many years what seemed to be uneventful surgery. In recent years, late in-the-bag IOL subluxation or dislocation has been reported with increasing frequency, having a cumulative risk of IOL dislocation following cataract extraction of 0.1% after 10 years and 1.7% after 25 years. A predisposition to zonular insufficiency and capsular contraction is identified in 90% of reviewed cases. Multiple conditions likely play a role in contributing to this zonular weakness and capsular contraction. Pseudoexfoliation is the most common risk factor, accounting for more than 50% of cases. Other associated conditions predisposing to zonular dehiscence are aging, high myopia, uveitis, trauma, previous vitreoretinal surgery, retinitis pigmentosa, diabetes mellitus, atopic dermatitis, previous acute angle-closure glaucoma attack, and connective tissue disorders. The recognition of these predisposing factors suggests a modified approach in cases at risk. We review certain measures to prevent IOL-bag complex luxation that have been proposed.

Positioning of the posterior intraocular lens in the longer term following cataract surgery in eyes with and without pseudoexfoliation syndrome

PURPOSE

To assess long-term positioning of posterior chamber intraocular lenses within the capsular bag in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

METHODS

The study includes 44 patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome and 85 age-matched controls, who underwent cataract surgery in 2001 and 2002 at the Eye Department, Oslo University Hospital. In 2008, all patients were re-examined. A comparison of the extent of possible decentration in eyes with and without pseudoexfoliation syndrome was made by evaluating Scheimpflug images (Pentacam) of the anterior segment.

RESULTS

It was found that, 6-7 years following cataract surgery, posterior chamber intraocular lenses were positioned lower in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome than in control eyes. The difference was statistically significant (p=0.01). Downward shift was associated with presence of glaucoma only in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (p=0.01). No patients had visual disturbances related to displacement of the intraocular lens. Three of the patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (6.8%) had observable pseudophacodonesis by slit-lamp examination, compared to one in the control group (1.2%). The study demonstrated that Pentacam is an appropriate instrument to measure decentration of intraocular lenses.

CONCLUSION

The study suggests that, 6-7 years after cataract surgery, the intraocular lenses within the capsular bag are more prone to decentration in pseudoexfoliation syndrome eyes, compared to controls.

Late in-the-bag intraocular lens dislocation requiring explantation: risk factors and outcomes

PURPOSE

To study the predisposing factors for late in-the-bag intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation and to analyze the outcomes after explantation surgery.

METHODS

In this retrospective multicentre study, 61 eyes were enrolled. The main inclusion criterion was in-the-bag spontaneous IOL dislocation after uneventful phacoemulsification cataract extraction. Only eyes with serious dislocation that required IOL explantation were eligible. Follow-up after explantation surgery of at least 3 months was required. Exclusion criteria were complicated cataract surgery, out-of-the-bag IOL dislocation, and dislocations that occurred in the first year after the cataract surgery. The main outcome measures were predisposing factors for dislocation, interval between cataract surgery and dislocation, surgical treatment at the time of explantation, preoperative and postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

High myopia was detected in 12 cases (19.7%) and it was the main predisposing factor. Mean time interval from cataract surgery to dislocation was 7.5 (SD 5.2) years. The dislocated in-the-bag IOL was replaced with a scleral fixated IOL (36.1%), angle-supported anterior chamber IOL (31.1%), sulcus repositioning (18%), or posterior chamber iris sutured IOL (4.9%). Finally, 9.8% of the patients were left aphakic. Mean CDVA improved significantly after surgery (P=0.005). Final CDVA of 20/40 or better was achieved in 29 cases (47.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

High myopia was the main risk factor for late in-the-bag IOL dislocation. Surgical treatment significantly improved the CDVA in our sample and was associated with a low complication rate.

Cataract and glaucoma surgery in pseudoexfoliation syndrome: a review

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is a risk factor in cataract surgery because of the increased weakness of zonular apparatus and reduced pupillary dilatation. The surgical outcome of using phacoemulsification in the central zone, inducing minimal stress on the zonules, inserting a capsular tension ring in selected cases, and stretching the pupil mechanically in eyes with miotic pupils, may turn out to be uneventful in most cases. Postoperative fibrosis with subsequent shrinkage of the capsule is increased in these eyes, and these centripetal forces will further loosen the zonular fibres. Late in-the-bag intraocular lens dislocation is therefore anticipated to become a growing problem in the future. Despite the dysfunctioning of the blood-aqueous barrier in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome, the frequency of postoperative inflammatory reaction is low due to the improvements made in surgical technique and equipment in recent years. Glaucoma frequently occurs in eyes with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Compared with primary open-angle glaucoma, optic damage is more pronounced in these eyes at the time of diagnosis and response to medical therapy is poorer. Although responses to argon laser therapy and filtering surgery are roughly similar between the two types of glaucoma, there are indications that primary laser trabeculoplasty has a higher success rate in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma than in primary open-angle glaucoma.

Late in-the-bag intraocular lens dislocation: Incidence, prevention, and management

Dislocation of an intraocular lens (IOL) with the capsular bag is a late complication of cataract surgery, reported with increasing frequency in recent years. Pseudoexfoliation, uveitis, myopia, and other diseases associated with progressive zonular weakening and capsular contraction are the predisposing conditions. Capsular tension rings probably help but do not prevent this complication. Management includes IOL exchange, replacement with an anterior or a sutured posterior chamber IOL, or suturing the IOL through the bag to the iris or the sclera.

In-the-bag intraocular lens dislocation

PURPOSE

To describe the presenting characteristics and management alternatives of posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) dislocation secondary to dehiscence of the zonules supporting the capsular bag.

DESIGN

Observational case series.

METHODS

Multicenter retrospective analysis of the surgical treatment and predisposing factors associated with 25 eyes of 22 patients with dislocation of the PC-IOL encased within the capsular bag secondary to dehiscence of the zonules supporting the capsular bag.

RESULTS

The dislocated in-the-bag PC-IOL was replaced with an anterior chamber intraocular lens in 60% or repositioned/exchanged and scleral fixated in 40% of eyes. Associated conditions included pseudoexfoliation syndrome 44%, uveitis 16%, and trauma 16%. There was no identifiable cause in 24% of eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

In-the-bag PC-IOL dislocations are an unusual, sometimes bilateral, late complication of cataract surgery that can be managed by exchange with an anterior chamber intraocular lens or by PC-IOL repositioning or replacement with scleral fixation. The most common associated condition was pseudoexfoliation.

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome: pathological manifestations of relevance to intraocular surgery

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) is a common ocular condition often associated with the need for intraocular surgery. Although results of cataract and glaucoma filtering surgery in eyes with PEX in the early stages of the disease may be comparable to those in eyes without PEX, in the later stages morbidity is significantly increased due to periocular surgical complications and the outcome is worse. Surgical and postoperative difficulties are often multifactorial and are directly related to the pathological changes of PEX on intraocular structures. Recent years have seen a large increase in the understanding of the effects of PEX on the various ocular tissues. Although the visible areas of the anterior capsule are most obviously involved, this is only a small part of the picture and of least significance. Biomicroscopically invisible changes of the zonules and their attachments are of greatest consequence. There is also distinct, often active, involvement of almost all tissues of the anterior segment of the eye, many of which have important implications for the anterior segment surgeon including iridopathy, iris vasculopathy (including persistent breakdown of the blood-aqueous barrier and anterior segment hypoxia), ciliary body involvement and keratopathy. Trabecular dysfunction is evident by the deposition of PEX material derived from both in situ and extra-trabecular production as well as protein and melanin deposition. These changes should be kept in mind by all intraocular surgeons as a source of potential difficulties in the perioperative period. Additionally, in light of these changes, patients need to be given realistic expectations regarding the increased risk of complications and more prolonged expected recovery time. In this short review, current reports relating to PEX pathological changes of practical interest to the intraocular surgeon are summarized.

Pseudoexfoliation in a rural population of southern India: the Aravind Comprehensive Eye Survey

PURPOSE

To determine the prevalence and risk factors for pseudoexfoliation in a rural population of southern India.

DESIGN

A population-based cross-sectional study of pseudoexfoliation with and without glaucoma in rural southern India.

METHOD

A total of 5,150 subjects aged 40 years and older from 50 clusters representative of three southern districts of Tamil Nadu in southern India.

RESULTS

All participants had a comprehensive eye examination at the base hospital, including visual acuity using logarithm of minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) illiterate E charts and refraction, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, gonioscopy, applanation tonometry, dilated fundus examinations, and automated central 24-2 full-threshold perimetry. Pseudoexfoliation (PXF) was diagnosed by the presence of typical white deposits on the anterior lens surface; additional sites included the cornea, iris, anterior vitreous face, posterior capsule, and intraocular lens in cataract-operated eyes and changes in the angle determined through gonioscopy, including increased pigmentation, PXF deposition, and PXF material within the angle.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence (95% confidence interval) of PXF was 6.0% (5.3, 6.6). The prevalence increased with age (P <.001) and was greater in males (P =.01). Of subjects with PXF, 25.7% remained bilaterally blind after best correction; 89.3% of this bilateral blindness was the result of cataracts. The prevalence of glaucoma among subjects with PXF was 7.5%; exfoliation was present in 26.7% of those identified as primary open-angle glaucoma. On multivariate analysis, increasing age and male gender were significantly associated with PXF. Pseudoexfoliation appears to be a relatively common disorder in older individuals in southern India. Ophthalmologists in India may wish to focus on the detection of PXF, especially considering the relatively large burden of cataracts in this population, the risks for operative complications related to PXF, and the fact that PXF may be used as a marker to aid in the detectection of glaucoma.

Capsular tension ring implantation after capsulorhexis in phacoemulsification of cataracts associated with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Intraoperative complications and early postoperative findings

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of an endocapsular tension ring in preventing zonular complications during phacoemulsification of cataracts associated with pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

SETTING

Eye Clinic of Beyoğlu Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.

METHODS

A prospective randomized study comprised 78 eyes with cataract and pseudoexfoliation syndrome that were randomly divided into 2 groups. The age, sex, cataract density, iridodonesis, axial length, anterior chamber depth, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and intraocular pressure (IOP) were matched between groups. In 39 eyes, a capsular tension ring (CTR) was implanted after capsulorhexis and hydrodissection but before nucleus emulsification. Thirty-nine eyes that did not have a CTR implanted served as a control. The main outcome measures were the rates of intraoperative zonular separation and capsular fixation of a foldable intraocular lens (IOL). Posterior capsule rupture without zonular dialysis, vitreous loss, corneal edema, fibrin in the anterior chamber, BCVA, and IOP in the immediate postoperative period were also compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Five eyes (12.8%) in the control group and no eye in the CTR group had intraoperative zonular separation (P =.02). Posterior capsule rupture without zonular separation occurred in 3 eyes (7.7%) in the control group and 2 (5.2%) in the CTR group. Capsular IOL fixation was achieved in 37 eyes (94.9%) in the CTR group and 31 eyes (74.3%) in the control group (P =.012). The difference in BCVA was not statistically significant between the 2 groups (P =.44); however, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was significantly better in the CTR group (P =.026).

CONCLUSION

In cases of cataract associated with pseudoexfoliation syndrome, implanting a CTR before phacoemulsification of the nucleus reduced intraoperative zonular separation, increased the rate of capsular IOL fixation, and improved UCVA.

Spontaneous late dislocation of intraocular lens within the capsular bag in pseudoexfoliation patients

PURPOSE

To identify a delayed complication of cataract surgery in patients with zonular weakness caused by pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Eight eyes in seven patients with clinically diagnosed pseudoexfoliation syndrome who had undergone previous uncomplicated cataract extraction and placement of a posterior chamber intraocular lens.

METHODS

This study evaluated eight cases of late spontaneous dislocation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses within the capsular bag in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Data were gathered retrospectively from patients' operative reports, medical records, and pathology reports.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

(1) Interval between original surgery and dislocation; (2) final best-corrected visual acuity and ocular outcome.

RESULTS

All patients had a diagnosis of pseudoexfoliation syndrome and had previously undergone uncomplicated cataract surgery. No patient had any other predisposing factors that would lead to zonular dehiscence or weakness. Delayed dislocation of the entire capsular bag containing the intraocular lens (IOL) occurred spontaneously in all cases. Mean time from IOL implantation to dislocation was approximately 85 months (7 years and 1 month; range, 57-115 months) after surgery. Seven eyes were treated successfully with IOL exchange: six with placement of an anterior chamber IOL and one with scleral fixation of a posterior chamber IOL. The remaining case was treated by scleral fixation of the dislocated IOL. Gross pathology analysis of seven cases confirmed the presence of the IOL within the intact capsular bag. Six eyes have achieved final best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better.

CONCLUSION

Patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome may be at risk for delayed spontaneous dislocation of IOL within the capsular bag after uncomplicated cataract surgery. Awareness of this newly recognized long-term complication may justify a reevaluation of surgical considerations for cataract removal in these patients.

Exfoliation syndrome

Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) is an age-related disease in which abnormal fibrillar extracellular material is produced and accumulates in many ocular tissues. Its ocular manifestations involve all of the structures of the anterior segment, as well as conjunctiva and orbital structures. Glaucoma occurs more commonly in eyes with XFS than in those without it; in fact, XFS has recently been recognized as the most common identifiable cause of glaucoma. Patients with XFS are also predisposed to develop angle-closure glaucoma, and glaucoma in XFS has a more serious clinical course and worse prognosis than primary open-angle glaucoma. There is increasing evidence for an etiological association of XFS with cataract formation, and possibly with retinal vein occlusion. XFS is now suspected to be a systemic disorder and has been associated preliminarily with transient ischemic attacks, stroke, systemic hypertension, and myocardial infarction. Further ramifications await discovery. Deposits of white material on the anterior lens surface are the most consistent and important diagnostic feature of XFS. The classic pattern consists of three distinct zones that become visible when the pupil is fully dilated. Whereas the classic picture of manifest XFS has been often described, the early stages of beginning exfoliation have not been well defined. Next to the lens, exfoliation material is most prominent at the pupillary border. Pigment loss from the iris sphincter region and its deposition on anterior chamber structures is a hallmark of XFS. Despite extensive research, the exact chemical composition of exfoliation material (XFM) remains unknown. An overproduction and abnormal metabolism of glycosaminoglycans have been suggested as one of the key changes in XFS. The protein components of XFM include both noncollagenous basement membrane components and epitopes of the elastic fiber system such as fibrillium. Regardless of etiology, typical exfoliation fibers have been demonstrated electron microscopically in close association with the pre-equatorial lens epithelium, the nonpigmented ciliary epithelium, the iris pigment epithelium, the corneal endothelium, the trabecular endothelium, and with almost all cell types of the iris stroma, such as fibrocytes, melanocytes, vascular endothelial cells, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells. The presence of XFS should alert the physician to the increased risks of intraocular surgery, most commonly zonular dehiscence, capsular rupture, and vitreous loss during cataract extraction. Heightened awareness of this condition and its associated clinical signs are important in the detection and management of glaucoma, and preoperative determination of those patients at increased risk for surgical complications.