Anterior chamber retained lens fragments: A novel approach with Nd:Yag laser

Abstract

The retention of lenticular fragments (LF), either cortical or nuclear, in the anterior chamber after cataract surgery are a rare but important complication that may lead to patient discomfort and visual decrease. In this multicenter case series, we report the use of Neodymium:Yag laser to fragment LF effectively in twenty patients. Methods Multicenter retrospective case series of nd:Yag laser fragmentation of LF in twenty eyes at different clinics discovered after cataract surgery performed through phacoemulsification and implant of intraocular lens (IOL). Conclusion Early nd:Yag laser procedure is a good option to use for retained lenticular fragments in the anterior chamber after cataract extraction, to reduce damages to the endothelium caused by the LF, to lower patient discomfort to re-enter surgery, to minimize costs of surgical re-intervention and to avoid possible inflammatory complications given by the retained fragments that may not be reabsorbed properly and may even present several years after primary surgery leading to damages to endothelium caused by the lenticular fragments and visual disturbances.