This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Microincision techniques make combined cataract, retinal detachment procedures safer, easier
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
 John Conrath |
PARIS — Combined retinal detachment and cataract surgery shows broader indications with the use of microincisions and the new optical methods of IOL power calculation, according to a surgeon.
John Conrath, MD spoke at the presentation of the 2011 SFO Rapport on retinal detachment at the meeting of the French Society of Ophthalmology.
"We can now use 1.8-mm to 2-mm corneal incisions for cataract and perform minimally invasive 23-gauge to 25-gauge vitrectomy. Also, combined procedures become easier, safer and more comfortable," he said.
Cataract surgery at the time of retinal detachment surgery is mandatory when opacification of the lens hinders visualization and treatment of the detached retina. Also, if a cataract is present and must be removed soon, a combined procedure offers the advantages of one surgical session instead of two.
Silicone IOLs should never be used in these cases, as the silicone oil used for vitreoretinal surgery has been demonstrated to adhere to the optic of these lenses, he said.
According to Dr. Conrath, one-piece hydrophobic acrylic lenses of large diameter are the best choice.
"Avoid also multifocal implants. That would create problems of neuroadaptation," he said.
Optical systems for IOL power calculation, such as the IOLMaster (Carl Zeiss Meditec), can be used in case of "macula on" retinal detachment in a sufficiently clear field for visualization.
- Disclosure: Dr. Conrath has no direct financial interest in the products discussed in this article, nor is he a paid consultant for any companies mentioned.