Circular continuous anterior capsulotomy with high frequency diathermy.

Recently a new device (Klöti) has been commercialized which is able to cut the anterior lens capsule by high frequency (HF) diathermy without coagulating or tearing. The method is easy to learn. The properties of a continuous circular anterior capsulotomy performed thereby resemble those of a continuous circular capsulorhexis. In 48 consecutive cases with a follow up of more than 15 months we found no significant difference between rhexis and HF diathermy capsulotomy as far as rigidity or elasticity of the anterior capsular opening is concerned. There was also no difference between HF diathermy and conventional capsulotomy regarding corneal decompensation, posterior synechiae or lens decentration.