Pupillary block following posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation in adults

Pupillary block rarely occurs after cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation.

A series of six patients (seven eyes) treated for pupillary block after posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation between 1990 and 2001 is described; in one eye, the attack occurred after phacoemulsification.

The interval between pupillary block development and the cataract surgery ranged from 1 day to 5 years. In all eyes, treatment consisted of neodymium-YAG laser peripheral iridotomy. In four eyes, the laser peripheral iridotomy relieved the block (one procedure in two; two to three procedures in two). One patient was also treated with YAG capsulotomy, and two patients needed additional surgical intervention.

Despite the rarity of the complication of pupillary block after posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, physicians should be aware of the sometimes difficult course of recovery after treatment.