Results of vitrectomy performed at the time of phacoemulsification complicated by intravitreal lens fragments

Aim-To evaluate outcome of vitrectomy performed at the time of phacoemulsification complicated by intravitreal lens material. Methods-Clinical records associated with consecutive 8536 phacoemulsification procedures were reviewed retrospectively. Results-17 (0.20%) eyes had a posterior capsule rupture with retained lens material in the vitreous cavity that required vitrectomy. Final visual acuity was 0.5 or better in 14 eyes (82%) and 0.4 to 0.1 in three eyes (18%). Retinal detachment occurred in one eye during vitrectomy and two after the surgery. Cystoid macular oedema was observed in two eyes and none developed glaucoma. The corneal endothelial cell loss was 5.7% (SD 6.8 %) (n=15) at 3-6 months postoperatively. Conclusions-Combined vitrectomy and intraocular lens implantation at the time of phacoemulsification complicated by intravitreal lens material is an option to be considered to reduce the risk of postoperative complications including secondary glaucoma and corneal endothelial cell damage.