Erbium:YAG laser-assisted cataract surgery.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

To assess the safety and efficacy of erbium:YAG laser-assisted cataract removal.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A total of 15 patients underwent cataractous lens removal. All the patients had a visual acuity of 20/50 or worse secondary to senile cataract. The endothelial cell count was calculated preoperatively and at 6 weeks postoperatively. A 2.94-micron-wavelength erbium: YAG laser with a zirconium-fluoride fiber optic and silica tip was used to fracture and emulsify the nucleus. The erbium:YAG laser was chosen due to its high absorption in water, a primary component of a cataractous lens.

RESULTS

The postoperative visual acuity was 20/30 or better in all the eyes that were treated with surgery. The endothelial cell loss at 3 months was 0% to 10%. No laser-related complications were noted. A conversion to an ultrasound surgical technique was utilized in six cases. Vitreous loss occurred in one case due to the posterior extension of an anterior capsulotomy tear.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the ability of an erbium:YAG laser system to safely and effectively emulsify the lens nucleus. Laser-assisted cataract surgery is a promising new clinical procedure.