Capsular bag distension syndrome after combined cataract and glaucoma surgery.

PURPOSE

To report four cases of capsular bag distension syndrome (CBDS) after combined cataract and glaucoma surgery.

METHODS

We describe the clinical features and evolution of each case after individual treatment.

CASE REPORTS

We report four cases of CBDS after phacoemulsification, combined with trabeculectomy in two cases and with an Ahmed aqueous drainage device implantation in the other two cases. The space between the intraocular lens (IOL) and the posterior capsule was occupied by an optically clear liquid in two cases and by a turbid liquid in the other two cases, with posterior bowing of the capsule into the anterior vitreous. A myopic shift and anterior chamber shallowing occurred in three cases. After posterior Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy, the CBDS resolved in three cases. In case 1, a surgical posterior capsulotomy and anterior vitrectomy were necessary.

DISCUSSION

Capsular bag distension syndrome should be included in the differential diagnosis of a shallow anterior chamber after combined cataract and glaucoma surgery.