Posterior capsular rent - Prevention, recognition, and management - A review
Mohan Rajan1, Arthi Mohankumar1, Madhuvanthi Mohan1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Rajan Eye Care Hospital Private Limited, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Taiwan Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 12, 2026
Summary
Posterior capsular rent (PCR) during cataract surgery requires prompt management to prevent vision loss. Strategies include meticulous planning, specific surgical techniques, and appropriate intraocular lens (IOL) choice to optimize outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Complications
- Cataract Surgery
Background:
- Posterior capsular rent (PCR) is a significant intraoperative complication of cataract surgery.
- It can lead to vision-threatening sequelae if not managed promptly and appropriately.
- Contributing factors include weak zonules, posterior polar cataracts, improper phacoemulsification, and excessive instrument manipulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the recognition, prevention, and management of posterior capsular rent (PCR) during cataract surgery.
- To highlight strategies for optimizing visual outcomes following this complication.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on posterior capsular rent (PCR) in cataract surgery.
- Discussion of diagnostic tools like swept-source optical coherence tomography and intraoperative assessments.
- Analysis of prevention strategies and management techniques.
Main Results:
- Early recognition of PCR is critical for preventing further complications.
- Prevention involves meticulous surgical planning, careful hydrodissection, judicious phaco power, and anterior chamber (AC) stability.
- Management includes anterior vitrectomy and appropriate intraocular lens (IOL) selection (sulcus-fixated, iris-fixated, scleral-fixated, or ACIOLs).
Conclusions:
- Surgical vigilance and adherence to best practices are essential for managing PCR.
- An individualized approach to IOL implantation and postoperative care is crucial for optimizing visual outcomes.
- Prompt recognition and management of PCR minimize risks like vitreous loss, retained lens fragments, and IOL malposition.
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