The effect of lens edge design versus anterior capsule overlap on posterior capsule opacification

Smith, Stacy R.; Daynes, Todd; Hinckley, Michael; Wallin, Trevin R.; Olson, Randall J.

doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2004.04.028

Next »American Journal of Ophthalmology
Volume 138, Issue 4 , Pages 521-526, October 2004

The effect of lens edge design versus anterior capsule overlap on posterior capsule opacification

Stacy R. Smith, MD
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Todd Daynes, MD
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Michael Hinckley, BA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Trevin R. Wallin, MD
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Randall J. Olson, MD
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Inquiries to Randall J. Olson, MD, Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, 50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, Utah 84132, USA; fax: 801–581–3357

Accepted 12 April 2004. published online 20 August 2004.

Abstract

Purpose

To determine whether lens edge design or anterior capsule overlap on the intraocular lens (IOL) has greater effect on posterior capsule opacification (PCO).

Design

Retrospective cohort clinical study.

Methods

Retrospective. SETTING: Academic clinical practice.PATIENT POPULATION: The patient population consisted of 259 uncomplicated surgical patients (259 eyes) with no confounding comorbidity and at least 1 year of follow-up after surgical placement of a silicone or hydrophobic acrylic lens. OBSERVATION PROCEDURES: Digital retroilluminated photographs were taken to ascertain PCO, anterior capsular opacification (ACO), previous neodymium:YAG capsulotomy and degree of anterior capsule overlap on the IOL optic. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: PCO, ACO, YAG capsulotomy rate, and anterior capsule overlap on the IOL optic.

Results

One hundred forty-eight digital images (74 silicone and 74 acrylic) were measurable for both anterior capsule overlap and PCO. Complete 360 degrees of anterior capsule overlap on the IOL was associated with decreased PCO (P = <.001). A significant negative correlation was found between the degree of anterior capsule overlap and PCO (P = <.001). Evaluation of PCO, and YAG capsulotomy rates were similar between acrylic and silicone lenses. Minimal anterior capsule overlap may also be associated with PCO prevention.

Conclusions

Implanting a lens with complete anterior capsule overlap on the IOL was found to significantly reduce PCO, which advantage appeared to be greater than PCO prevention by a truncated, sharp edge IOL design.