AIR/FLUID-DROPPING TECHNIQUE FOR INTRACAPSULAR DISTILLED WATER APPLICATION: A Vitrectomy Approach for Selective Targeting of Lens Epithelial Cells.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We describe a simplified technique of intracapsular distilled water application for targeting lens epithelial cells using vitrectomy approach of fluid-air exchange and to evaluate the reliability and safety of this technique. METHODS: Consecutive patients with cataract were randomly assigned to treatment group and control group. After the nucleus removal and cortical aspiration, the space of anterior chamber and capsular bag were maintained with continuous infusion of sterile air by using fluid-air exchange technique through side-port incision. Distilled water was dropped into the capsular bag using a specially designed syringe. A concave air-fluid surface (a physical phenomenon) insured the contact of distilled water with the inner surface of the capsule without overflowing from the bag. The distilled water remained in place for 3 minutes and was then removed by the syringe. RESULTS: No intraoperative surgical complication was observed, and no damage to adjacent intraocular structures was observed during the postoperative follow-up. There was no statistical difference of corneal endothelial cell loss between the treatment group and the control group. Histological study confirmed damage to the lens epithelial cells from anterior capsular specimens treated by the technique. CONCLUSION: The simplified technique using vitrectomy approach is safe and specific for targeting lens epithelial cells without associated complications.