Intraoperative and postoperative complications of high-frequency capsulotomy and continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis.

PURPOSE: To compare the intraoperative complications and postoperative blood-aqueous barrier (BAB) disturbance after high-frequency capsulotomy and continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC).

SETTING

Vienna General Hospital, Vienna, Austria.

METHODS

This prospective, randomized clinical study evaluated 53 eyes with senile cataract. Patients were divided into two groups: high-frequency capsulotomy (n = 27) or CCC (n = 26). The surgical procedure and postoperative therapy were standardized for both groups. The intraoperative course was documented, and postoperative complications were examined by biomicroscopy 3 months postoperatively. Without the pupil dilated, BAB disturbance was evaluated with a laser flare-cell meter at 1, 3, 7, and 14 days postoperatively. The findings were analyzed statistically.

RESULTS

Intraoperatively, the high-frequency capsulotomy group had a significantly higher rate of radial tears in the anterior lens capsule. Postoperatively, this resulted in a higher incidence of postoperative false positioning of the intraocular lens. At no time were the flare-cell meter results between groups statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

High-frequency capsulotomy resulted in no more trauma than CCC. It can be a good alternative to conventional techniques, particularly in eyes with no red reflex. However, the technique is associated with less mechanical stability.