Comparison between Posterior Capsular Opacification Following Implantation of Hydrophilic & Hydrophobic Acrylic IOLs

Abstract

owadays, care of a cataractous patient greatly exceeds surgical removal of the opacified lens. In a step forward to the welfare of the elderly, special concern is given for posterior capsular opacification (PCO), which remains one of the most common complications after cataract surgery. The aim of that work was to evaluate the IOL biomaterial impact on the onset of PCO development, comparing the incidence between the hydrophilic and the hydrophobic IOLs. Newer generations of IOLs have been introduced, aiming at obtaining the best visual function possible, and reducing the incidence of PCO or delaying its onset. Despite the definite relationship between PCO, IOL design, and material remains unresolved, the ongoing developments highlight the importance of IOL design, making it superior to IOL material. This led to a series of changes in the current lens design irrespective of the lens material. Several surgical improvements have been generated to tackle the problem of PCO development that could be summarized in hydrodissection-enhanced cortical cleanup, a continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis diameter slightly smaller than that of the IOL optic, and “In-the-bag” fixation of the posterior chamber IOL.