Intrascleral-Fixated Intraocular Lenses for Aphakic Correction in the Absence of Capsular Support

PURPOSE: To present results of experience with the authors" technique for intrascleral fixation of intraocular lenses for the correction of aphakia in the absence of capsular support. METHODS: Eleven patients (four children and seven adults) underwent surgery with the use of the method proposed by the authors (11 operations). The patients ranged in age from 11 to 75 years. The equatorial remnants in the lower segment of the capsular bag were revealed in 5 patients (45.5%). Absence of the capsular bag was observed in 6 patients (54.5%). RESULTS: During long-term follow-up evaluation, visual acuity without correction (mean 0.33+/-0.05) corresponded to the preoperative corrected one. Better visual acuity outcome of 0.41+/-0.06 was achieved with added correction. With intrascleral fixation, a mean refractive error of 1.48+/-0.39 D should be taken into account when calculating intraocular lens power with use of the SRK II formula. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation with intrascleral fixation of haptics is a safe and effective technique for aphakic correction in the absence of capsular support and the presence of its defects. The technique used in the present study offers safety and stability of the intraocular lens position.