The simple approach to intraocular lens implantation.

The Copeland intraocular lens implant combined with the intracapsular cataract extraction technique is relatively easy to do when first starting intraocular lens surgery. It does not require switching over to the extracapsular technique or using suture material to secure the implant. It can be done with a Loupe by those who do not use a microscope. The lens is hinged securely in the plane of the pupil and is immobile even with extensive eye movement. The planned implantation should be cancelled if the eye is not soft with a shrunken vitreous body immediately after the lens is extracted. The talked about complications of uveitis and posterior lens membrane may be avoided by the use of steroids and No. 10-0 Ethylon or No. 9-0 silk sutures. After doing, over the past two years, 55 Copeland iris plane lenses combined with intracapsular cataract extraction, I find it to be a relatively simple procedure. It is certainly easier than using intraocular lenses that require either the remnants of lens cortex or capsule for implant fixation, or the tying of No. 10-0 Ethylon suture inside the anterior chamber.