Quantitative concepts in avoiding intraocular lens damage from the Nd:YAG laser in posterior capsulotomy

Damage to the intraocular lens (IOL) in Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy is a complication to be avoided. The damage threshold for many of the commercially available IOLs was determined. The power density at the focal point was calculated for FDA approved Nd:YAG lasers. Based on the therapeutic gap concept it is recommended that only power levels below the damage threshold be used in photodiscission posterior capsulotomy to minimize the risk of Nd:YAG laser IOL damage.