[Clear lens extraction (CLE) for correction of high grade myopia]

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the clear lens removal to compensate the myopic refractive error.

Retrospective analysis of 40 myopic eyes with axial length more than 27 mm, treated by phacoemulsification and posterior chamber lens implantation. Mean follow-up 45.9 months (17 to 118). Analysed parameters: postoperative uncorrected and bestcorrected visual acuity, comparison of pre- and postoperative bestcorrected visual acuity, intra- and postoperative complications, predictability of refraction, subjective satisfaction score.

Axial length 30.63 +/- 2.0 mm (min. 27, max. 36.8 mm). Preoperative myopia -14.50 +/- 3.6 dpt. Bestcorrected preoperative visual acuity 0.40 +/- 0.19 (min. 0.1, max. 0.8). Bestcorrected postoperative visual acuity 0.71 +/- 0.25 (min. 0.16, max. 1.25). No loss of best corrected visual acuity. Posterior capsule opacification requiring YAG-capsulotomy occurred in 50%. One eye developed cystoid macular edema, no retinal detachment were observed postoperatively. All patients were satisfied or very satisfied.

Clear Lens Extraction for severe myopia is safe, for the patient satisfying and is a valid alternative to corneal refractive surgery.