To analyze the indications for intraocular lens (IOL) exchange, interval between the first IOL implantation and the exchange, type and mix of IOLs used, effect on vision, and frequency of complications.
Setting
Cincinnati Eye Institute-Cincinnati-Ohio-USA.
Methods
This retrospective study comprised 49 eyes of 49 adult patients who had IOL exchange between 1986 and 2002 performed by the same surgeon. The mean age was 70 years old, and 55% were women. The mean interval between surgeries was 53.8 months and the mean follow-up, 35.6 months. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the type of IOL originally implanted: anterior chamber (AC) or posterior chamber (PC).
Results
There were 15 eyes with an AC IOL and 34 eyes with a PC IOL. The difference in mean age and follow-up were not statistically significant between groups. The mean interval between the primary surgery and IOL explantation was 82.3 months in the AC IOL group and 37.9 months in the PC IOL group. The main reason for IOL exchange was inflammation (53.34%) and dislocation/decentration (85.30%), respectively. The preoperative best corrected visual acuity was similar in both groups, and visual acuity was maintained or improved in 80%. Vitreous prolapse was the main intraoperative complication.
Conclusions
The primary indication for IOL exchange was intraocular inflammation in patients with an AC IOL and IOL malposition in patients with a PC IOL. The results confirm the safety and positive visual outcome in this complex group of patients.
From the Cataract Sectors, Complexo Hospitalar Padre Bento de Guarulhos and Centro de Estudo do Hospital Monumento (F.F. Marques), and Universidade Federal do Estodo de Sao Paulo/Escola Paulista de Medicina UNIFESP/EPM (D.M.V. Marques, Freitas), São Paulo, Brazil; University of Cincinnati and a private practice, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
Corresponding author: Frederico França Marques, MD, Rua Arapá, 28 apt 31 Vila Mascote, 04363-060, São Paulo, Brazil.
No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
ABSTRACT