ABSTRACT
To evaluate radiofrequency diathermy as a new technique that cut the anterior lens capsule in cataract surgery. Eighty eyes of eighty patients that had cataract were subjected to controlled circular anterior capsulotomy. The anterior chamber was filled with viscoelastic. The anterior capsule was cut in circular manner [5.5-6.5 mm in diameter] by probe tip heated to 130-160 C by modulated high frequency current of 500 KHz. Very fine irregularities in capsular edge was present nearly in all cases, capsular tears during nucleus expression was present in 8.75% of eyes, during irrigation aspiration additional capsular tears developed in 10% of eyes. Vitreous loss occurred in 5%. Postoperatively malposition of IOL in those who were implanted occurred in 15%. Radiofrequency capsulotomy is an easy technique that produces a controlled size and shape of anterior capsulotomy. The technique rely neither on presence of red reflex nor the elasticity of lens capsule; so it can be a useful technique where the conditions are unfavorable for continuous tear circular capsulorhexis