Direct Intraocular Lens Extraction Using a Newly Developed Lens-Grabbing Forceps

TL;DR

A new minimally invasive technique using special forceps allows quick and safe removal of dislocated intraocular lenses through a small eye incision.

Contribution

A novel lens-grabbing forceps technique for direct intraocular lens removal is introduced.

Findings

IOL removal was completed in about 95 seconds through a 2.2 mm incision.

Minimal incision enlargement (0.16 mm) and slight endothelial cell decrease observed.

Abstract

Background: Due to lower age thresholds for cataract surgery and increased longevity, cases with intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation requiring removal have increased. Traditional methods, such as cutting or folding the IOL within the eye, pose a high risk of complications, including corneal endothelial and iris damage. Methods: We developed a new minimally invasive technique for direct IOL removal using specially designed lens-grabbing forceps. These forceps can grasp and remove the IOL through a small incision in a single motion, significantly reducing intraocular manipulations compared to conventional methods. Results: In our test cases, IOL removal through a 2.2 mm corneal incision was completed in approximately 95 s, with minimal incision enlargement (about 0.16 mm) and a slight decrease in corneal endothelial cells. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that this technique is minimally invasive and safe for IOL removal, offering a promising alternative to existing methods.

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