Attaining the optimal flange technique for transscleral capsular bag stabilization using iris hooks.

PURPOSE: To investigate the flange properties of different iris hooks.

SETTING

Vienna Institute for Research in Ocular Surgery (VIROS), Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria.

DESIGN

Laboratory study.

METHODS

The flanging properties of 4 different iris hooks made from polypropylene (PP), elastic polymer (EP), and nylon were investigated with different heating distances and both with and without forceps gripping. The maximum diameter of the flanges was measured, and the shape of the flanges was evaluated.

RESULTS

Although both nylon and EP iris hooks had too small flange diameters for intrascleral fixation, PP iris hooks had a sufficient flange diameter (>330 μm) and mushroom-like shape. Furthermore, in PP hooks, heating distance was directly proportional to flange diameter.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggest that only PP iris hooks are suitable for flanged intrascleral fixation, which is off-label, to secure adequate fixation.