Long-Term Follow-up of the Insertion of Capsular Tension Ring in Cataract Surgery

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term results after the insertion of a capsular tension ring (CTR) in eyes with cataract surgery. METHODS: Twenty eyes of 20 patients with zonular dialysis determined preoperatively or intraoperatively had phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) and CTR implantation. Best-corrected visual acuity, refractive error, PCIOL decentration, posterior capsular opacity (PCO), and postoperative complications after long-term follow-up were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 64 years and mean follow-up time was 34 months. Nineteen of 20 eyes gained 2 or more lines in BCVA. Intraoperatively, 3 eyes (15%) developed posterior capsular ruptures. During the immediate postoperative period, there was minimal corneal edema in 9 eyes (45%) and corneal erosion in 2 eyes (10%). Among the 6 eyes (30%) that developed raised intraocular pressure, 5 eyes responded well to medical therapy. After a long-term follow-up, 2 eyes (10%) developed PCO, but there were no refractive errors, IOL decentration, or high IOP that could affect visual outcome. CONCLUSIONS: CTR may enhance safety and efficacy during phacoemulsification and PCIOL implantation for patients with zonular dialysis, and reduce the incidence of IOL decentration and secondary cataract.