Pars plana posterior capsulotomy in a patient with a telescope prosthesis for age-related macular degeneration

Arch Ophthalmol. 2010 Aug;128(8):1065-7. doi: 10.1001/archophthalmol.2010.156.

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate a surgical technique for visualization and removal of visually significant posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in a patient with a telescope prosthesis for end-stage age-related macular degeneration, in what is to our knowledge the first reported case of visually significant PCO associated with the use of this device.

Methods: A pars plana capsulotomy using a 25-gauge vitrector was performed to remove PCO.

Results: Pars plana capsulotomy was performed and visual acuity improved to pre-PCO levels. Challenges associated with the management of this condition are discussed.

Conclusions: The development of visually significant PCO in patients with a telescope prosthesis is a rare occurrence that poses a unique treatment dilemma. Given the risks of damaging the device with Nd:YAG laser, a method for pars plana capsulotomy using a 25-gauge vitrectomy instrument was determined and successfully performed to remove PCO in a telescope-implanted eye.

MeSH terms

  • Cataract / etiology
  • Cataract Extraction / methods*
  • Humans
  • Lens Capsule, Crystalline / pathology
  • Lens Capsule, Crystalline / surgery*
  • Macular Degeneration / surgery*
  • Optical Devices*
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Prosthesis Implantation
  • Visual Acuity / physiology
  • Vitrectomy / instrumentation