Flexible open-loop anterior chamber intraocular lens implants.

Abstract

To determine the efficacy of flexible open-loop anterior chamber intraocular lens (AC IOL) implants in cataract surgery complicated by vitreous loss and in secondary implantation. Results were reviewed in 18 eyes in the former group and in 43 eyes in the latter group that were operated on by the author over an 8-year period. Of 18 eyes in the former group, 13 (72%) had a final visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Cystoid macular edema was the most common cause of the decrease in visual acuity. Of 43 eyes in the latter group, 37 (86%) had a final vision equal to the best-corrected preoperative vision. A retinal complication developed in 6 of 18 eyes that received a primary AC IOL with vitreous loss, whereas no retinal complications developed in any of the 14 eyes that received a secondary AC IOL with vitreous loss (P = 0.021). For secondary AC IOL implantation, eyes with vitreous loss treated by Weck-cel sponge vitrectomy had the same visual results as eyes without vitreous loss. Flexible open-loop AC IOLs are safe and effective for primary implantation after vitreous loss and for secondary implantation.