Removal of viscoelastic materials after experimental cataract surgery in vitro

Ehud I. Assia, David J. Apple*, Edward S. Lim, Robin C. Morgan, Julie C. Tsai

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

94 Scopus citations

Abstract

The one significant complication of viscoelastic materials is that they may cause postoperative intraocular pressure rise. We investigated the rate and ease of removal of various viscoelastics using the Miyake video technique. Five viscoelastics were investigated: sodium hyaluronate (Healon®), Healon GV®, chondroitin sulfate. sodium hyaluronate (Viscoat®), hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (Occucoat®), and polyacrylamide (Orcolon®). The viscoelastics were dyed with fluorescein and, after filling the capsular bag with a viscoelastic material, a posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) was implanted. The viscoelastic was then aspirated using an automated irrigation/aspiration device. Healon and Healon GV were completely removed within 20 to 25 seconds. Viscoat adhered to the lens capsule and to the posterior surface of the IOL and cooplete removal required approximately 3.5 minutes. Most Occucoat and Orcolon was aspirated within one minute; however, removal was completed only after three minutes. Removal of Healon and Healon GV was faster and more complete than removal of the other viscoelastics. Whether a small amount of viscoelastic left in the eye or trapped behind the IOL optic has any clinical significance has to be studied.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)3-6
Number of pages4
JournalJournal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
Volume18
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 1992
Externally publishedYes

Funding

FundersFunder number
Research to Prevent Blindness

    Keywords

    • postoperative glaucoma
    • viscoelastic material

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