The dangers of metal-loop intraocular lenses

The author implanted 500 intraocular lenses (IOLs) during intracapsular surgery. Data from the 60 lenses with metal posterior loops showed a markedly high incidence of complication compared to plastic loops: twice as many overall complications, three times the cystoid mascular edema, three times the rate for subsequent corrective surgical procedures, and 30 times more IOLs had to be removed. IOL manufacturers are advised to abandon metal loops for intracapsular implantation. Polypropylene is suggested as the apparent ideal loop material.