title: Capsular stabilization device to preserve lens capsule integrity during phacoemulsification with a weak zonule.
abstract: We describe a new capsular stabilization device for suspending a lens with weak zonular support. It is flexible, 10.0 mm in length, and fashioned from 5-0 nylon. The contact portion is bent at 1.25 mm with an end bifurcating to form a T-shape to minimize stress on the capsular equator. After a continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis is created, the capsular stabilization devices to hook the capsulotomy margin are inserted. The T-shaped end is passed around the anterior capsular flap to fit the curvature of the equator. Phacoemulsification and aspiration using this device was performed in 12 eyes of 9 patients, and the usefulness and complications were analyzed. The capsular stabilization devices suspended the capsule and facilitated safe phacoemulsification in all eyes. Posterior capsule rupture occurred in 2 eyes. None of the cases had notable postoperative complications. This device ensures a stable capsule-iris complex and reduces surgical risks.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, Fujigaoka Hospital, Showa University School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan. e-246ra@d5.dion.ne.jp
authors.forename: Eiichi
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Nishimura
authors.forename: Shigeo
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Yaguchi
authors.forename: Hitoshi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Nishihara
authors.forename: Masahiko
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ayaki
authors.forename: Tadahiko
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Kozawa
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D019923:Capsulorhexis / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control; D007903:Lens Capsule, Crystalline / Q000601:surgery*; D008022:Ligaments; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009757:Nylons; D018918:Phacoemulsification / Q000379:methods*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012189:Retrospective Studies
chemical_list: D009757:Nylons