Neovascular glaucoma following neodymium-YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

Iris neovascularization and neovascular glaucoma were diagnosed in three diabetic patients following neodymium-YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. Each of the patients had previously undergone an uncomplicated extracapsular cataract extraction with insertion of a posterior chamber lens implant. These occurrences are consistent with the hypothesis that the posterior lens capsule may serve as a protective barrier to a diffusible vasoproliferative factor from the vitreous or retina. Both the beneficial optical effects and the potential adverse effects should be carefully considered prior to performing neodymium-YAG laser posterior capsulotomy in diabetic patients or other patients with ischemia in the fundus. Following neodymium-YAG laser posterior capsulotomy, these eyes should be closely followed up for signs of neovascularization and possible panretinal photocoagulation.