Side-port stabilizer to assist implantation of microincision intraocular lenses

We describe a new instrument for incision-assisted implantation of microincision intraocular lenses (IOLs). The instrument is a short nail, smooth and oval, that is inserted into the side-port incision to stabilize the eye during IOL implantation. The head prevents deep penetration and escape of the ophthalmic viscosurgical device through the incision. The instrument was safe and effective in its initial use; the 1 failure was due to the close proximity of the side port and the main incision.