Combined phacoemulsification and silicone oil removal with assistance of anterior chamber maintainer

Abstract

Background: To evaluate the using of anterior chamber maintainer (ACM) in combined phacoemulsification and silicone oil removal through posterior capsulorhexis in silicone oil filled eyes. Methods: Combined cataract extraction with phacoemulsification and silicone oil removal with silicone oil extraction cannula through posterior capsulorhexis was performed in 9 eyes. Indications of previous vitreoretinal surgery and silicone oil injection were proliferative vitreoretinopathy in 3 eyes and proliferative diabetic retinopathy in 6 eyes. Result: Foldable acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) was implanted in 7 eyes. In 2 eyes, IOL was not implanted because of high myopia. Intraoperative advantages using of ACM were (i) prevention of shallowness of anterior chamber, (ii) prevention of myosis during phacoemulsification and silicone oil extraction, (iii) prevention of silicone oil flow to anterior chamber through dehiscent zonules etc. Retinal detachment, severe inflammation and corneal oedema did not develop any case postoperatively. Visual acuities is encreased in all cases. Conclusion: ACM are useful in silicone oil filled eyes during the phacoemulsification and silicone oil removal. It may decrease postoperative complications of these procedures. © EVRS 2006.