Intraocular lens exchange-removing the optic intact.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Current intraocular lens (IOL) exchange often involves cutting the posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) optic.
• This cutting maneuver carries risks, including posterior capsular tears and zonular stress during haptic removal from fibrosed capsules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel technique for removing one-piece acrylic foldable IOLs without optic transection.
• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of this modified IOL exchange procedure.

Main Methods:

• A technique involving careful visco-dissection of haptics using a low-viscosity ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD).
• Dissection is performed within the fibrosed peripheral capsular tunnel to prevent zonular or capsular stress.
• Internal wound enlargement allows for one-piece IOL removal, maintaining a self-sealing corneal wound.

Main Results:

• The described technique allows for the removal of foldable IOLs in one piece.
• The procedure avoids optic cutting and minimizes stress on the capsule and zonules.
• Preservation of a sutureless, self-sealing corneal wound is achieved.

Conclusions:

• This technique offers a potentially safer and more effective alternative for foldable IOL exchange.
• Avoiding optic transection reduces the risk of complications associated with IOL removal.
• The described method preserves the integrity of the corneal wound and ocular structures.