Short-term outcomes of a modified technique for small-incision scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation using Gore-Tex sutures

Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2021 Jul;259(7):1889-1896. doi: 10.1007/s00417-021-05201-4. Epub 2021 Apr 29.

Abstract

Purpose: To report the short-term outcomes of a modified small-incision technique for implantation of scleral-fixated intraocular lenses (IOLs) using Gore-Tex sutures.

Methods: A retrospective, interventional, consecutive case series was conducted. From June 2019 to February 2020, 10 patients underwent small-incision scleral-fixated IOL implantation using Gore-Tex sutures at a tertiary referral center. Visual and anatomical outcomes and complications were recorded with a minimum follow-up period of 3 months. Surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) and IOL-induced astigmatism were measured.

Results: The mean follow-up duration (range) was 396 (240-573) days. Best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly from logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) 0.88 ± 0.65 (Snellen equivalent: 20/153) preoperation to logMAR = 0.30 ± 0.51 (Snellen equivalent: 20/40) at final follow-up (P = .008). The estimated SIA and IOL-induced astigmatism were 0.61 diopters (D) ± 0.49D and 0.40D ± 0.36D, respectively. No intraoperative complications occurred. The postoperative complications, which included ocular hypertension (20%), cystoid macular edema (30%), and vitreous hemorrhage (20%), were transient and resolved with topical medication.

Conclusions: The modified small-incision technique for implantation of scleral-fixated IOLs using Gore-Tex sutures was well tolerated in all patients, with favorable postoperative visual outcomes and minimal SIA and IOL-induced astigmatism.

Keywords: Gore-Tex suture; Inadequate capsular support; Scleral-fixated intraocular lens; Small incision; Surgically induced astigmatism.

MeSH terms

  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Lens Implantation, Intraocular*
  • Lenses, Intraocular*
  • Polytetrafluoroethylene
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sclera / surgery
  • Suture Techniques
  • Sutures

Substances

  • Polytetrafluoroethylene