Evaluation of Lens Capsule Stability Using Capsular Tension Ring, Iris Retractor, and Capsule Expander Using a...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Devices
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Zonular dehiscence poses a significant challenge during cataract surgery, increasing the risk of complications.
• Stabilizing the lens capsule is crucial for safe and effective phacoemulsification and aspiration (PEA).

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of capsular tension rings (CTRs), iris retractors (IRs), and capsule expanders (CEs) in stabilizing the lens capsule.
• To compare the performance of these devices under varying degrees of zonular dehiscence using a porcine model.

Main Methods:

• An experimental porcine eye model was developed to simulate different degrees of zonular dehiscence.
• Phacoemulsification and aspiration (PEA) was performed with and without devices (control).
• Capsular bag retention rate and lens fragment drop were measured for CTRs, IRs, and CEs across dehiscence angles of 30° to 180°.

Main Results:

• All tested devices (CTRs, IRs, CEs) significantly increased capsular bag retention compared to the control group (P < 0.05).
• The number of dropped lens fragments decreased with device use, with specific numbers of IRs and CEs showing efficacy at higher dehiscence degrees (90°, 120°, 180°).

Conclusions:

• The developed porcine model effectively demonstrates differences in capsular bag stabilization among CTRs, IRs, and CEs.
• These devices offer valuable support for maintaining lens capsule integrity during PEA, especially in cases of significant zonular dehiscence.