Managing the broken capsule.
OBJECTIVE
Posterior capsular rupture is a common complication of cataract extraction surgery. Prompt management of anterior and posterior capsular tears may prevent associated complications or need for subsequent procedural intervention.


RESULTS
When tears develop in the anterior capsule, novel techniques allow predictable rescue of a capsulorhexis, preventing radial extension to the posterior capsule. Several case series now describe techniques and outcomes of posterior assisted levitation techniques for a dislocated nucleus. Triamcinolone staining of the vitreous improves visualization and removal of vitreous in the anterior segment following capsular rupture. Recently published studies further describe the increased risks of endophthalmitis and retinal detachment following capsular tears.


CONCLUSIONS
Several techniques may prove beneficial in the intraoperative management of an anterior capsular tear, a dislocated nucleus, or vitreous loss.
Wu
Michael C
MC
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98195-6485, USA. michawu@u.washington.edu
Bhandari
Anuja
A
D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D007903:Lens Capsule, Crystalline / Q000293:injuries*; D007907:Lens Nucleus, Crystalline / Q000601:surgery; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D012086:Reoperation; D012163:Retinal Detachment / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery; D012421:Rupture; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014222:Triamcinolone Acetonide / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D014821:Vitrectomy / Q000379:methods*; D014822:Vitreous Body
D005938:Glucocorticoids; D014222:Triamcinolone Acetonide