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New system eases foldable IOL removal
Forceps inserted through sideport stabilize IOL for cutting.
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In conjunction with Impex Instruments, I have designed a new and simplified method to section and remove foldable silicone or acrylic IOLs. Unlike other methods that rely on the use of large scissors alone to cut the foldable IOL into one or more sections prior to removal, this system uses uniquely designed microforceps inserted through a 1.2-mm sideport incision to fixate and stabilize the IOL before cutting it in half with the scissors.
As suggested in the accompanying figures, the fixation forceps are inserted through a small sideport incision and grasps the optic. The scissors are inserted through the primary incision of 3 mm or less and are shown cutting the optic.
The Mackool lens removal system, which includes both forceps and scissors, offers the following advantages: complete stabilization of the optic prior to cutting; prevention of movement of any part of the optic toward the corneal endothelium during cutting; no need to enlarge the incision previously used to insert the IOL; and an extremely short learning curve.
| Implant fixation forceps hold the IOL. | Scissors cut the optic. |
| Forceps fixate optic. | Scissors transsect optic. |
| Each half of optic is removed. |
For Your Information:
- Richard J. Mackool, MD, can be reached at the Mackool Eye Institute, 31-27 41 St., Astoria NY 11103; (718) 728-3400; fax: (718) 728-4882; e-mail: mackooleye@aol.com. Dr. Mackool has no direct financial interest in the products mentioned in this article, nor is he a paid consultant for any companies mentioned.
- The Mackool lens removal system is manufactured by Impex Instruments, 614 Richmond Rd., Staten Island, NY 10304; (888) 884-6739; fax: (718) 447-6109; e-mail: impex89@aol.com.