Haptic-Extended Flange Intrascleral Fixation for Single-Piece Acrylic Intraocular Lenses.

Background/

Objective

Whereas conventional flanged intrascleral fixation is limited to 3-piece intraocular lenses (IOLs), we developed and evaluated a novel haptic-extended flange technique for single-piece acrylic IOLs, including presbyopia-correcting and toric lenses.

Methods

In this technique, a 6-0 polypropylene suture is secured along the lateral aspect of the single-piece IOL haptic to extend its length, followed by intrascleral flange fixation. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) from far to near, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and refraction were evaluated at 1 month postoperatively. IOL tilt and decentration were assessed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography.

Results

This study included a consecutive series of 10 eyes of 10 patients (mean age: 58.3 ± 16.2 years), comprising 5 eyes with multifocal IOL, 2 eyes with multifocal toric IOL, 2 eyes with enhanced monofocal IOL, and 1 eye with monofocal IOL. All IOLs were securely fixed; the mean IOL tilt was 5.74 ± 2.93° and the mean decentration was 0.35 ± 0.19 mm. All eyes achieved CDVA of 20/20 or better, and all eyes with multifocal IOLs achieved UCVA at 40 cm of 20/25 or better. No early postoperative complications attributable to the surgical procedure were observed. In a case associated with atopic dermatitis, retinal detachment occurred 4 months after surgery.

Conclusions

In this preliminary case series, haptic-extended flange fixation enabled early stabilization of selected single-piece acrylic IOLs with favorable short-term visual and anatomic outcomes. Larger studies with longer follow-up are needed to confirm long-term safety, durability and comparative effectiveness.