Long-Term Results of Phacoemulsification Combined with Primary Posterior Curvilinear Capsulorhexis in Adults

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the 2-year outcomes of phacoemulsification combined with primary posterior curvilinear capsulorhexis (PPCC) in adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective case series, 93 eyes of 91 patients with bilateral age-related cataract who underwent phacoemulsification combined with PPCC were evaluated. The study included cases due to postoperative residual posterior capsule opacification despite careful polishing. Data were evaluated on preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuity (CDVA) (Snellen acuity), slit-lamp biomicroscopy and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement. Perioperative and postoperative complications were also recorded. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 24.9 ±13.5 months (range, 12-53 months). At the last visit, 87.1% of the eyes had CDVA ≥ 20/40 and 58% had ≥ 20/25. Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) occurred in 2 (2.2%) of patients. No serious complications such as retinal detachment and endophthalmitis were observed during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Cataract surgery combined with PPCC is a safe procedure with a low rate of complications over the long term. This procedure reduced the necessity of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in adults with postoperative residual posterior capsule opacification despite careful polishing.