Complications of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery.

PURPOSE

To analyze complications of femtosecond lasers used for cataract surgery.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis.

METHODS

Intraoperative complications of the first 100 femtosecond laser-assisted (Alcon-Lensx, Inc.) cataract surgeries were collected. Possible complications of femtosecond capsulotomies and their management were also assessed.

RESULTS

The complications were as follows: suction break (2%), conjunctival redness or hemorrhage (34%), capsule tags and bridges (20%), anterior tear (4%), miosis (32%), and endothelial damage due to cut within the endothelial layer (3%). There were no cases of capsule blockage or posterior capsule tear. During the learning curve, there was no complication that would require vitrectomy. All complications occurred during the first 100 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Femtosecond laser cataract surgery had a learning curve during the first 100 cases. With cautious surgical technique, the complications can be avoided. The femtosecond laser-assisted method was efficient and safe for cataract surgery.