Intrascleral reverse pocket approach of transconjunctival transscleral sulcus fixation of intraocular lens in eyes with ocular trauma.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of a novel technique of intrascleral reverse pocket approach of transconjunctival transscleral (TC-TS) sulcus fixation of intraocular lens (IOL) implants in posttraumatic eyes.

METHOD

A prospective case series of 12 patients who had ocular trauma underwent TC-TS fixation of intraocular implants (including posterior chamber IOLs, rigid or foldable and capsular tension ring) were examined for any intraoperative complications, postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), status of conjunctiva, and other potential complications.

RESULTS

Twelve eyes of 12 patients (8 men and 4 women) with a mean follow-up of 14.5±7.25 months were included in the analysis. In no case was any intraoperative deroofing of the tunnel or buttonholing of the conjunctiva performed. The mean final BCVA (in Snellen Equivalent [SE]) showed significant improvement from preoperative levels (0.48±0.29 SE vs. 0.65±0.19 SE, respectively; P=0.049). One case showed a single line drop in the BCVA at final follow-up. Another case had a dispersed vitreous hemorrhage in the immediate postoperative period that cleared in 3 weeks' time. One eye demonstrated a clinically detectable IOL tilt, which was corrected by astigmatic prescription in the spectacle glass. None of the cases exhibited postoperative suture knot erosion or breakage of polypropylene sutures until the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The technique of intrascleral reverse pocket approach of TC-TS fixation is a successful method of sulcus fixation, which can obviate the need for conjunctival peritomy, thus helping in salvaging the conjunctiva for any future trabeculectomy in posttraumatic eyes predisposed to developing glaucoma.