Twist and out intraocular lens removal

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Foldable acrylic posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC IOLs) are commonly implanted but their removal can be challenging.
• Existing explantation methods may require larger incisions or specialized equipment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel, minimally invasive technique for the complete removal of foldable acrylic PC IOLs.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of using standard intraocular instruments through a small corneal incision.

Main Methods:

• The technique involves freeing the PC IOL, externalizing a haptic through a 2.2 mm corneal incision, and manipulating the IOL using forceps and a spatula.
• The PC IOL is carefully rolled and guided out of the anterior chamber through the main incision.

Main Results:

• The described technique successfully removed the entire foldable acrylic PC IOL.
• The procedure was performed using standard intraocular instruments via a 2.2 mm corneal incision, indicating minimal tissue disruption.

Conclusions:

• This technique offers a safe and effective method for explanting foldable acrylic PC IOLs.
• The use of a small incision and standard instruments makes this a valuable option for ophthalmic surgeons.