Comparison of preoperative Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy versus two-stage curvilinear capsulorhexis in phacoemulsification of white intumescent cataracts

Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging. 2009 Nov-Dec;40(6):582-5. doi: 10.3928/15428877-20091030-08.

Abstract

Background and objective: To compare the results of preoperative Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy versus two-stage continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC) in phacoemulsification of eyes with white intumescent cataracts and liquefied cortex.

Patients and methods: Twenty-three eyes with white intumescent cataract were consecutively randomized for phacoemulsification with preoperative Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy (group 1, n = 11) or two-stage CCC (group 2, n = 12) procedures. Intraoperative findings and postoperative outcomes were compared using the nonparametric tests.

Results: Postoperative visual acuity, mean surgical time, mean effective phacoemulsification time, and frequency of complications were not significantly different between the two groups (P > .05). Two cases in each group were converted to the extracapsular technique. Excluding these four patients, surgical time was shorter in group 1 (P = .017).

Conclusion: Preoperative Nd:YAG laser anterior capsulotomy is a safe technique in decompressing the capsular bag before phacoemulsification of white intumescent cataracts with liquefied cortex.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Capsulorhexis / methods*
  • Cataract / pathology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods*
  • Lasers, Solid-State / therapeutic use*
  • Lens Capsule, Crystalline / surgery*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phacoemulsification / methods*
  • Preoperative Care / methods*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome