Methylcellulose--a better viscosurgical alternative for intraocular lens implantation

The authors have used 2% methylcellulose in 8,000 cases of intraocular lens implant surgery during the last five and a half years. Their surgical experience and investigations have convinced them that methylcellulose is safe and effective besides being convenient and economical. It is easily autoclavable, has very low particulate matter when prepared by the author's technique, and causes minimal secondary rise of intraocular pressure. The endothelial protective function and breakdown of the blood aqueous barrier are comparable to that of Healon. The authors consider methylcellulose to be the better alternative for IOL implant surgery.