Effect of 25-Gauge Needle-Assisted Phacoemulsification of Dislocated Intravitreal Lens Nucleus.

PURPOSE: Purpose: To present and evaluate the effect of a novel technique, 25-gauge (G) needle-assisted phacoemulsification, to remove dislocated intravitreal lens nuclei.

METHODS

Methods

Nine eyes of nine patients with dislocated intravitreal lens nuclei who underwent 23-G pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and 25-G needle-assisted phacoemulsification between July 2022 and September 2024 were included in this study. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) and corneal endothelial cell count (CECC) were statistically analysed both preoperatively and postoperatively. The intraoperative and postoperative complications were evaluated. A minimum follow-up of 6 months was completed for all eyes.

RESULTS

Results

All nine eyes of nine patients were successfully treated with 23-G PPV and 25-G needle-assisted phacoemulsification and postoperatively followed up for 6-13 months. BCVA improved significantly (p < 0.05) in all patients, and postoperative IOP was 16.0 ± 1.73 mmHg, remaining stable within the normal range. Although statistical differences were observed between preoperative and final follow-up, the loss rate of CECC was within a tolerable range. No intraoperative and postoperative complications, such as iatrogenic retinal tears or vitreous haemorrhage, were observed.

CONCLUSION

Conclusion

The 25-G needle-assisted phacoemulsification is a safe and efficient alternative for removing dislocated intravitreal lens nuclei. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06709378.