Lens subluxation is more efficiently managed by phacoemulsification

Lens subluxation and lens coloboma are better managed by phacoemulsification rather than manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS), reveals a study in The Journal of the British Contact Lens Association.

The investigation, led by Dr Saurabh Kamal, Guru Nanak Eye Centre, New Delhi, India, included a patient with bilateral isolated lens coloboma. In the left eye MSICS was performed and in the right eye phacoemulsification was conducted.

Lens extraction was indicated for cataract or subluxation by determining if visual function was adequately compromised.

The results revealed that nuclear rotation was disturbed due to a lack of zonules and lens coloboma presence. In the right eye the nucleus was broken during phacoemulsification. This allowed the successful implantation of a modified capsule tension ring.

In conclusion, eyes with lens coloboma are more at risk of complications during cataract surgery, so phacoemulsification is the safest and most successful treatment option.