Transient intraocular lens opacification during phacoemulsification surgery

PURPOSE: To report an interesting case of intraoperative opacification of intraocular lens (IOL). METHODS: This study is a report of a 61-year-old male patient who suffered from nuclear sclerosis cataract and had undergone phacoemulsification surgery. During surgery, intraoperative opacification of IOL (Cristal, Cristalens), which was a foldable, 13 mm, one piece, square edge and hydrophilic acrylic IOL, occurred. This phenomenon caused a surprise and a decision to explant the IOL, but the surgeon decided to keep the IOL in place. After a day, it was completely clear. RESULTS: The surgery was completed successfully without any complications, and the IOL was completely clear the day after surgery. CONCLUSION: Acute, transient IOL opacification with unproven etiology may occur during cataract surgery.