Flexible open-loop anterior chamber intraocular lens implantation after posterior capsule complications in extracapsular cataract extraction.

Objective: To analyze 50 cases of flexible open-loop anterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation after posterior capsule rupture and vitreous loss and compare the results with those of other published series.

Methods: North Riding Infirmary, Cleveland, England. Methods: This retrospective study, with a follow-up between 3 and 81 months, comprised all patients who had a flexible open-loop anterior chamber IOL implanted because of significant posterior capsule problems during extracapsular cataract extraction. The incidence of postoperative complications and best corrected visual acuity results were determined.

Results: Three patients with cystoid macular edema achieved final best corrected visual acuity of 6/9 (20/30). There was one retinal detachment and one traumatic incision rupture with IOL loss 6 weeks postoperatively and subsequent retinal detachment and phthisis. Seventy-two percent achieved a best corrected visual acuity of 6/9 (20/30).

Conclusions: Our results agree with those of other published series. Implantation of a flexible open-loop anterior chamber IOL as a primary lens is still an acceptable way of treating posterior capsule complications in cataract surgery.