title: A new endocapsular open ring for prevention of anterior and posterior capsule opacification.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study is to demonstrate the functionality of a new design of a thick endocapsular open ring for prevention of anterior capsule opacification (ACO) and posterior capsule opacification (PCO).
  
  
  METHODS
  The Institute of Vision and Optics, University of Crete and University Hospital of Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
  
  
  METHODS
  Prospective, interventional pilot study.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifteen patients (17 eyes) underwent cataract surgery with phacoemulsification. During surgery, a thick endocapsular open ring (peripheral capsule reconstructor) was inserted into the capsular bag, prior to intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Six different models of IOL were implanted. Postoperatively, the degree of ACO and PCO was evaluated and described as none, mild, moderate, or severe.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The mean follow-up period was 30±8.06 months (range: 12-36 months). At the last follow-up, mild PCO was observed in only three eyes and mild ACO in three patients. The centration of IOLs was good in all but one eye, which had a tilted IOL.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The results of this pilot study suggest that the implantation of a new design of thick endocapsular open ring is feasible and may contribute to the prevention of PCO and ACO after cataract surgery.
authors.affiliation: Institute of Vision and Optics, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
authors.forename: Ioannis G
authors.initials: IG
authors.lastname: Pallikaris
authors.affiliation: Institute of Vision and Optics, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
authors.forename: Nela R
authors.initials: NR
authors.lastname: Stojanovic
authors.affiliation: Institute of Vision and Optics, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
authors.forename: Harilaos S
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Ginis
keywords: cataract; intraocular implant; phacoemulsification; silicone