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Updated: Aug 4, 2026
08:04
Preparation and Observation of Thick Biological Samples by Scanning Transmission Electron Tomography
Published on: March 12, 2017
Polishing methods for the lens capsule: histology and scanning electron microscopy
C F Mathey1, T B Kohnen, H J Ensikat
1Klinik Dardenne, Bonn, Germany.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Preventing capsule opacification after cataract surgery requires removing lens epithelial cells. Ultrasound irrigation/aspiration polishing effectively cleaned the capsular bag, offering a promising method to avoid this complication.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Capsule opacification is a common complication following extracapsular cataract surgery.
- Lens epithelial cells remaining on the capsule proliferate, leading to opacification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of various mechanical polishing techniques for removing lens epithelial cells from the capsular bag after endocapsular phacoemulsification.
- To identify the most effective method for preventing capsule opacification.
Main Methods:
- Cataract removal via endocapsular phacoemulsification with a miniature capsulorhexis.
- Polishing the capsular bag using five techniques: metallic scrapers, silicone scrapers, Rentsch capsule curettes, irrigation/aspiration (I/A) tip, or ultrasound I/A tip.
- Histological and scanning electron microscopy analysis of anterior capsule specimens.
Main Results:
- The ultrasound irrigation/aspiration tip resulted in the cleanest capsules compared to other mechanical polishing methods.
- All mechanical polishing techniques were more effective than the control group (no polishing).
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound irrigation/aspiration is the most effective method for polishing the capsular bag after phacoemulsification.
- Effective removal of lens epithelial cells is crucial for preventing capsule opacification.
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