Stress fractures after folding an acrylic intraocular lens.

PURPOSE: To manage the complication of stress fractures in foldable acrylic intraocular lenses.

METHODS

During an implantation of a foldable acrylic intraocular lens (AcrySof, Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, Texas), the optic was noted to have developed paracentral stress fractures along the fold approximately 50% deep.

RESULTS

The lens was explanted and replaced without difficulty.

CONCLUSIONS

The observed complication can be avoided by recognizing that it might occur, wetting the lens before slowly folding it, and inspecting it carefully before insertion.