Novel trocar assisted intraocular lens and capsular bag complex fixation

Abstract

Purpose

To describe the innovative technique of trocar-assisted intraocular lens (IOL) and capsular bag complex fixation.

Methods

In this technique, initial pupil dilatation is achieved either with intracameral adrenaline or with the help of iris hooks. Automated anterior vitrectomy is performed in cases with vitreous prolapse. A 25 G trocar cannula is placed at the limbus through a paracentesis opposite the zonular dialysis area. The cannula lumen act as a guide to pass the double-arm polypropylene suture attached to the needle. This prevents any inadvertent corneal injury and acts as a perpendicular tract to pass the needle through IOL capsular bag complex.

Results

We performed this technique in 9 cases with an excellent outcome with a minimum of 3 months of follow-up. All patients had well-centred IOL. There was no incidence of corneal injury, Descemet membrane detachment, iris trauma, IOL tilt, decentration, dislocation, vitreous prolapse or retinal detachment. All patients achieved excellent visual acuity ranging from 6/12-6/6 postoperatively.

Conclusion

The novel trocar-assisted IOL bag complex fixation technique is very effective and allows smooth IOL fixation in technically challenging cases with IOL subluxation. The trocar acts as a guide to prevent injury to the surrounding tissue, and IOL fixation is achieved with minimal manipulations in the anterior chamber. It also prevents the need for IOL explantation in these cases.