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What to do with limited view: the intumescent cataract
H V Gimbel1, A B Willerscheidt
1Gimbel Eye Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|September 1, 1993
Summary
This study analyzed 2,967 cataract cases, finding 1.15% were intumescent. A modified capsulorhexis technique (CCC, 2-CCC) and phacoemulsification successfully managed these challenging cataracts.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Techniques
Background:
- Intumescent cataracts present unique surgical challenges.
- Managing these cataracts requires specialized anterior capsulotomy and nuclear extraction techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the incidence of intumescent cataracts in a large cohort.
- To describe a surgical technique for managing intumescent cataracts.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study of 2,967 cataract cases.
- Utilized a two-stage continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (2-CCC) technique for anterior capsulotomy.
- Employed down-slope sculpting phacoemulsification for nuclear extraction.
Main Results:
- 34 cases (1.15%) were identified as intumescent cataracts.
- A can-opener capsulotomy was converted to 2-CCC in 3 cases due to loss of capsulorhexis control.
- Four cases (11.7%) experienced anterior capsule tears during capsulotomy.
- All cases achieved successful in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation.
Conclusions:
- The described CCC, 2-CCC, and down-slope sculpting phacoemulsification technique is effective for managing intumescent cataracts.
- Despite challenges like anterior capsule tears, successful outcomes with in-the-bag IOL implantation are achievable.