Intraocular lens explantation following cataract surgery: Indications, techniques, and video demonstrations

Abstract

As techniques for modern cataract surgery have expanded and premium intraocular lens (IOL) use is now widespread, patient expectations are high. The need for IOL explantation, whilst still low, remains an ongoing issue. Intraocular lens explantation can be challenging for a number of reasons and as such we have introduced an additional technique to add to the surgeon’s repertoire. Bimanual haptic stripping of fibrosis at the specific area where the haptic is adherent to the capsular bag is an effective strategy to aid in dissection of haptics without compromising the capsule or zonules. Given the challenges associated with IOL explantation, newly designed IOLs need to avoid these “sticking points” at which the IOLs interact with the fibrosed capsule. Techniques we have evolved and which are described below should assist anterior segment surgeons to facilitate IOL removal in an efficient and safe way.