Safe Suture Burial in Trans-scleral Fixation of Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens

Abstract

The commonest complication of trans-scleral fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) is suture erosion. The sutures though crucial for lens stability, if exposed cause discomfort and are a potential source of endophthalmitis. We describe a technique in which the IOL is suspended in the ciliary sulcus using 9-0 polypropylene by an ab externo approach at 2 and 8 o'clock positions through the scleral bed under 3×3 mm partial thickness scleral flaps. The 9-0 polypropylene suture, holding the PCIOL is then secured by an anchoring knot and the entire mesh of sutures are buried under the scleral flap by a simple modification in suturing technique wherein a bite through the undersurface of scleral flap pulls the flap snugly on the suture knot preventing suture erosion.

Keywords

• iol
• scleral fixation
• sutured posterior chamber iol