Purpose: Removing a dislocated posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL
) is a hazardous procedure that may lead to severe complications and v
isual loss. A new technique for handling this complication by means of
vitrectomy to help replace the luxated IOL directly in the anterior c
hamber is described. Methods: Five patients (two men and three women)
underwent surgery for replacement of a luxated posterior chamber IOL i
n the vitreous cavity. The average age was 67.4 +/- 8.9 (years +/- SD)
; range, 57-79 years. Before and after vitrectomy, specular microscopy
study of the corneal endothelium was done. Results: The results obtai
ned in these five patients were highly satisfactory, with an average f
inal visual acuity of 20/32 and residual refraction of -1.125 +/- 1.33
. There was no evidence of corneal endothelium decompensation. In one
patient, a retinal detachment occurred after 7 months, which was opera
ted successfully. Conclusions: This technique-which allows permanent,
stable, and controllable replacement of an IOL with minimal trauma to
the iris and corneal endothelium-avoids postoperative induced astigmat
ism. The technique is useful for IOL with and without positioning hole
s; No corneal incision is needed; the standard sclerotomies for vitrec
tomy are used.