Proliferation of lens epithelial remnants after Nd-YAG laser capsulotomy

Use of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy

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

Influence of intraocular lens material on regeneratory posterior capsule opacification after neodymium:YAG laser capsulotomy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy on the morphology and development of regeneratory opacification of the remaining surrounding posterior capsule.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Medical School, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.

METHODS

Standardized digital retroillumination photographs were taken immediately before and after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy and at 1 week, 6 months, and 1 to 3 years in 38 eyes of consecutive patients. Changes in regeneratory posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and opacification around the capsulotomy opening were evaluated. The influence of the type of intraocular lens (IOL) material and design (acrylic, n = 8; hydrogel, n = 8; silicone open loop, n = 11; silicone plate haptic, n = 6; poly(methyl methacrylate) [PMMA], n = 5) was assessed. The state of the anterior vitreous surface was examined at the slitlamp in all eyes.

RESULTS

In 8 of 17 eyes with a silicone IOL, reduced regeneratory PCO was observed. Massive pearl formation on the margin of the Nd:YAG capsulotomy was typical with silicone IOLs (8 eyes) but also occurred with PMMA IOLs. Eyes with acrylic IOLs had no change in regeneratory PCO after the capsulotomy. Three of 8 eyes with hydrogel IOLs had complete closure of the posterior capsulotomy opening.

CONCLUSIONS

Neodymium:YAG laser capsulotomy induced changes in the development and morphology of regeneratory PCO. Silicone and PMMA IOLs led to significant pearl formation on the capsulotomy margin, often combined with a reduction of peripheral regeneratory PCO (silicone). Hydrogel IOLs led to a higher incidence of reclosure of the Nd:YAG capsulotomy opening.