Iris-fixated phakic intraocular lens explantation.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Outcomes
• Intraocular Lenses

Background:

• Phakic intraocular lenses (PIOLs) are implanted to correct refractive errors.
• Long-term complications can necessitate PIOL removal.
• Cataract development and endothelial cell loss are key indications for explantation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate visual outcomes after PIOL explantation.
• To determine the primary indications for PIOL removal surgery.
• To assess the safety and efficacy of explantation procedures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of patients undergoing PIOL explantation.
• Analysis of indications for explantation, visual, and refractive outcomes.
• Description of explantation techniques, including combined procedures.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two eyes from 16 patients underwent PIOL explantation (Artisan/Artiflex lenses).
• Indications included cataract (17/22), endothelial cell loss (4/22), and synechiae (1/22).
• Mean corrected vision post-explantation was 0.22 logMAR; one patient required corneal transplant.

Conclusions:

• Cataract and endothelial cell loss are the most common reasons for PIOL explantation.
• PIOL explantation, with or without cataract surgery, is a safe procedure with favorable visual results.
• Increased PIOL explantation rates are anticipated as PIOL-bearing populations age.