Capsular tension ring for zonular dehiscence in combined phacoemulsification and pars plana vitrectomy with or without gas tamponade

Abstract

We report the use of a capsular tension ring in 2 patients with zonular dehiscence who underwent combined phacoemulsification and pars plana vitrectomy with or without gas tamponade. In both cases, insertion of a capsular tension ring stabilized the capsular bag for phacoemulsification and allowed implantation of the foldable intraocular lens within the capsular bag. Intra- operatively, in one patient a small amount of air escaped into the anterior chamber, for which the capsular tension ring was gently massaged to reposition and expel the air. No air escaped into the anterior chamber in the other case. Postoperatively, the intraocular lens and capsular complex remained stable. Our cases showed that a capsular ten- sion ring may be a surgical option for managing patients with limited zonular dehiscence and involves combining phacoemulsification with pars plana vitrectomy.