Neodymium: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy: the first 100 cases at UCLA.

Initial anatomic success was reported in 97 of the first 100 neodymium: YAG laser posterior capsulotomies performed at the Jules Stein Eye Institute. Visual acuity improved in 90 patients, was unchanged in five, and decreased in five. In the five patients with decreased visual acuity after posterior capsulotomy, the decrease was unrelated to capsulotomy and caused by progression of preexisting retinal disease. Our experience suggests that attention to patient evaluation and surgical technique can help minimize complications and assure best results.