Extraction of endocapsular tension ring after phacoemulsification in eyes with pseudoexfoliation.

PURPOSE
To describe an easy and effective surgical technique for removing the endocapsular tension ring (CTR) after phacoemulsification. DESIGN: New surgical technique.

METHODS
One 10-0 polypropylene suture needle is passed through the hole at one end of the CTR. Then, the CTR is introduced into the capsular bag before phacoemulsification. If the posterior capsule ruptures, the CTR can be removed by pulling the suture toward the corneal incision and rotating the CTR to remove it.

RESULTS
We performed this technique in 23 cases with a risk of zonular damage and did not encounter complications at any point in the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS
We recommend this procedure in eyes with risk of zonular dialysis and posterior capsule rupture, especially in advanced pseudoexfoliative cataracts or if the surgeon has limited experience with these cases

CITA DEL ARTÍCULO  Am J Ophthalmol. 2004 Jul;138(1):173-5