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Capsule polishing with laser shows efficacy in reducing capsule opacification
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 Pavel Stodulka |
ISTANBUL, Turkey — A new method for complete cleaning of the inner capsule by laser-generated pulses could reduce capsular opacity after cataract surgery, according to a surgeon here.
A laser manufactured by ARC Laser is used with dedicated probes to reach the anterior and posterior capsule as well as the capsule equator. Thorough polishing is carried out by laser pulses.
"In this way, not only germinating lens epithelial cells are removed, but also binding proteins laminin and fibronectin that serve as scaffolds for proliferating cells. Without these proteins, [lens epithelial cells] are unable to migrate on the capsule," Pavel Stodulka, MD, said at the winter meeting of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.
After completion of the laser capsule opacity prevention (LCOP) procedure, the inner surface of the capsular bag is clean and transparent, remaining so in the months after surgery.
In an ongoing study, eight patients have reached 3-month follow-up. All patients were implanted bilaterally with the Crystalens HD (Bausch + Lomb) accommodative IOL. The LCOP procedure was performed in one eye of each patient.
A multicenter study with longer follow-up will be organized to evaluate the efficacy of this method.
- Disclosure: Dr. Stodulka is a consultant for Bausch + Lomb.