Scleral fixation of dislocated posterior chamber intraocular lenses: Temporary haptic externalization through a clear corneal incision.

PURPOSE: To report the results of managing dislocated posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC IOLs) by externalizing the haptics through a clear corneal incision.

SETTING

The Retina Center at Pali Momi, Aiea, Hawaii, USA.

METHODS

This retrospective consecutive series comprised cases in which a dislocated PC IOL was managed with pars plana vitrectomy. With this method, the dislocated PC IOL is retrieved and stabilized in the anterior chamber. The haptic is externalized through a clear corneal incision for suture knot placement and then reinserted. A scleral fixation suture is placed 1.25 mm posterior to the limbus under a scleral flap.

RESULTS

The study included 14 eyes of 14 patients with a minimum follow-up of 6 months (median 15.4 months). There were 2 subluxated PC IOLs, 11 posteriorly dislocated PC IOLs, and 1 in-the-bag IOL dislocation. Postoperative vision and/or visual symptoms were stable or improved in 86% of eyes. Two eyes had worse vision caused by conditions not related to surgery including chronic cystoid macular edema from latanoprost use and optic atrophy. All IOLs were well fixated and stable, although 1 eye with asymmetric haptics had a slightly tilted IOL.

CONCLUSIONS

Dislocated PC IOL management by externalizing the haptic through a clear corneal incision stabilized the IOL in the anterior chamber, minimized intraocular operative manipulations, and allowed easier placement of the opposite haptic over residual capsule, if available. Stable fixation was achieved without dislocation or IOL-related complications recurring.