Quantitative Analysis of Gap Between the Intraocular Lens and Posterior Capsule Using Microscope-Integrated Optical Coherence Tomography in Eyes Undergoing Phacoemulsification

PURPOSE: To quantitatively analyze the dimensions of the gap between the intraocular lens (IOL) and the posterior capsule using microscope-integrated optical coherence tomography (MIOCT). SETTING: Institutional. DESIGN: Prospective, interventional. METHODS: A total of 105 eyes of 105 consecutive patients planned for phacoemulsification with IOL implantation were enrolled. At the end of surgery, the gap between the IOL and the posterior capsule (IOL-PC gap) was measured using MIOCT (RESCAN). The same gap was reassessed at 1 week follow-up visit using the Visante-OCT system. The cases were sub-grouped based on the grade of cataract, IOL material, size and design and were analyzed to look for any difference in the IOL-PC gap both intraoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: The IOL-PC gap could be successfully measured intra-operatively in all cases, using the RESCAN. The mean gap at the end of phacoemulsification was 385.08±264.58 µm, and at one week follow up this was 120.83± 95.13 µm. CONCLUSION: MIOCT may be successfully used to quantify the dimensions of the gap between the IOL and the posterior capsule. It can be used as a potential tool to further understand the dynamics of the IOL-PC space and to assess the impact of various IOL and non-IOL parameters implicated in the causation of posterior capsule opacification.