Results of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in posterior capsule opacification

The most common postoperative complication of cataract extraction is posterior capsule opacification. It causes the deterioration of visual acuity, however, there is no effective method to prevent it. The posterior capsule opacification is treated by surgical or laser capsulotomy. The authors analysed the results of Nd:YAG application in discission of the opacified posterior capsule. Twenty-eight consecutive cases (23 patients) of extracapsular cataract extraction and phacoemulsification with implantation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses were reviewed. In all cases of capsulotomy the Nd:YAG laser of Q-switch Zeiss type was applied. The improvement of visual acuity was achieved in 25 cases (89%). The best visual acuity (0.8-1.0) was obtained in 72% of eyes and in 22% the improvement was from 0.25 to 0.5. In two cases visual acuity after capsulotomy deteriorated because of concomitant glaucoma. In one case repeated capsulotomy did not turn out to be successful. It was caused by diabetic neuropathy of the optic nerve. We did not observe any serious complications following Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy described by the others: the intraocular pressure elevation, cystoid macular edema, intraocular lens injury, retinal detachment, iridocyclitis. Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy is one of the best methods of treatment of posterior capsule opacification. It appears to be effective, safe, non-invasive and it does not require patient hospitalisation.