Anterior capsule rhexis flap as endothelial protection shield: a novel technique

Session Details

Session Title: Cataract
Session Date/Time: Saturday 11/02/2017 | 08:30-11:00
Paper Time: 10:36
Venue: Auditorium 1

First Author: S. Amir-Asgari AUSTRIA
Co Author(s): K. Stepanjek  N. Hirnschall  O. Findl           

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Measuring the density and morphology of endothelial cells after phacoemulsification using an anterior capsule rhexis flap for endothelial cell protection.

Setting:

Vienna Institute for Ocular Surgery (VIROS), a Karl-Landsteiner institute, Hanusch Hospital, Vienna, Austria

Methods:

Cataract patients with pronounced nuclear cataracts scheduled for surgery were randomized into study and control groups. The anterior capsule flap from the capsulorhexis was pushed against the endothelium using ophthalmic viscoelastic substance and, hence, used as an endothelial protection shield during phacoemulsification. During surgery, continuous intra-operative optical coherence tomography (ReScan700, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Germany) recordings were performed to verify the position of the anterior capsule flap. Endothelial cell density (ECD) was measured pre-operatively and two months post-operatively. Additionally, central corneal thickness (CCT) was measured pre-operatively, one hour, one day and two months after cataract surgery.

Results:

Preliminary data (35 patients of planned 60) has shown a significantly better outcome for CCT 2 months post-operatively in the study group (study group: -3ﾵm (SD: 26) vs control group: +6ﾵm (SD: 58 )) Although not statistically significant, ECD measurements have shown less cell loss 2 months post-operatively in the study group (study group: -3 cells/ cm2 (SD: 112.5) vs control group: -81 cells /cm2 (SD:204.8). Data of all 60 patients will be presented.

Conclusions:

Swirling lens fragments are a risk factor for the endothelium. Novel techniques to protect the endothelium appear promising.

Financial Disclosure:

None