This technique of anterior capsulorhexis is for use in eyes with high intra
lenticular pressure and absence of red reflex as encountered in intumescent
cataract. The initial steps of fashioning the anterior capsular flap and l
ens decompression are done under the microscope's high magnification and no
ncoaxial oblique illumination. Intralenticular pressure is controlled by fi
lling the anterior chamber with a viscoelastic agent. Once the lens is deco
mpressed, the capsulorhexis is completed with a capsule forceps and an endo
illuminator is used as an oblique source of illumination. This technique al
lows controlled capsulorhexis in eyes with intumescent cataract. (C) 1999 A
SCRS and ESCRS.