[Phacoemulsification of the dislocated lens nucleus in the vitreous body].

BACKGROUND

one of the most intriguing complications in phacoemulsification is the rupturing of the posterior capsule with los of the nucleus into the vitreous. As severe inflammation will follow, the removal of the nucleus is mandatory. Several methods have been described. Our approach has the advantage to minimize some of the imminent risks.

PATIENTS AND METHOD: On 15 eyes phacoemulsification in the vitreous cavity following vitrectomy has been carried out. Supporting liquids like viscoelastic substances or fluordecalin were not necessary.

RESULTS

There was no indication of retinal damage caused by this procedure. The early postoperative vision, however, was compromised by a longer lasting corneal edema. The long term visual prognosis was good.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoemulsification in the central vitreous cavity proved to be safe and fairly easy procedure without adverse effects on retina and sclera. It helps to reduce intraoperative risks of alternative methods, avoiding a large opening of the anterior chamber and hypotony of the eye globe.