title: Scleral fixation using suture retrieval through a scleral tunnel.
abstract: Scleral fixation of intraocular lenses (IOLs) can be performed under the protection of a scleral flap. A variation of this technique uses a scleral tunnel for suture fixation to the eye. Passage of a double-armed suture through the roof of the scleral tunnel with subsequent retrieval of the suture ends through the external incision for tying facilitates scleral fixation. This modification offers several advantages: A scleral tunnel is easier to construct than a triangular flap and does not require suture closure. It affords a greater surface area for suture placement through an ab externo or ab interno approach. Tying each suture allows the suture knot to pass under the roof of the tunnel, eliminating the need for suture knot rotation. Suture retrieval and scleral fixation through a scleral tunnel incision offers a simplified and elegant method for fixation of IOLs and other intraocular adjunctive devices.
authors.affiliation: Oregon Eye Institute, Eugene, Oregon 97401, USA. rshoffman@finemd.com
authors.forename: Richard S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Hoffman
authors.forename: I Howard
authors.initials: IH
authors.lastname: Fine
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Packer
authors.forename: Israel
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Rozenberg
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D019654:Lens Implantation, Intraocular / Q000379:methods*; D011126:Polypropylenes; D012590:Sclera / Q000601:surgery*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D013536:Suture Techniques; D013537:Sutures
chemical_list: D011126:Polypropylenes