Posterior capsule opacification.
A complication of extracapsular cataract extraction with or without posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) implantation is posterior capsule opacification. This condition is usually secondary to a proliferation and migration of residual lens epithelial cells. Opacification may be reduced by atraumatic surgery and thorough cortical clean-up. Clinical, pathological and experimental studies have shown that use of hydrodissection, the continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis and specific IOL designs may help reduce the incidence of this complication. Capsular-fixated, one-piece all-polymethylmethacrylate PC-IOLs with a C-shaped loop configuration and a posterior convexity of the optic are effective. Polymethylmethacrylate loops that retain "memory" create a symmetric, radial stretch on the posterior capsule after in-the-bag placement, leading to a more complete contact between the posterior surface of the IOL optic and the taut capsule. This may help form a barrier against central migration of epithelial cells into the visual axis. Various pharmacological and immunological methods are being investigated but conclusive data on these modalities are not yet available.
Apple
D J
DJ
Department of Ophthalmology, Storm Eye Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston.
Solomon
K D
KD
Tetz
M R
MR
Assia
E I
EI
Holland
E Y
EY
Legler
U F
UF
Tsai
J C
JC
Castaneda
V E
VE
Hoggatt
J P
JP
Kostick
A M
AM
D002386:Cataract / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D007903:Lens Capsule, Crystalline / Q000473:pathology*; D007908:Lens, Crystalline / Q000196:embryology; D007910:Lenses, Intraocular / Q000009:adverse effects; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011474:Prosthesis Design