Precision pulse capsulotomy in challenging cataract surgery cases

PURPOSE: To evaluate the use of the precision pulse capsulotomy (PPC) device for challenging cataract surgery cases. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This single-center retrospective case series study comprised of 43 eyes (from 35 patients) that were challenging cataract surgery cases with poorly dilated pupils, anterior subcapsular opacity, white cataract, brunescent cataract, and corneal opacity. This was conducted at the Busan Sungmo Eye Hospital (Busan, Republic of Korea) to assess the performance of the PPC device through a 2.2-mm clear corneal incision width, followed by the phacoemulsification technique and intracapsular intraocular lens fixation. The main outcome measurement was the anterior capsulotomy performance of the PPC device and the development of intraoperative complications. At postoperative 2 months, visual acuity, endothelial cell count, and refractive error were measured. RESULTS: No cases of anterior capsule tears or tags occurred. All 43 eyes received circular, 360-degree, free-floating, and appropriately sized anterior capsulotomies. During 2 months of follow up, no postoperative complications occurred in association with the PPC device. CONCLUSION: The PPC device facilitated the creation of a precise, round, appropriately sized anterior capsulotomy in challenging cataract surgery cases. Further investigations are required to understand the long-term safety and efficacy of the PPC device.