Capsulorhexis in intumescent cataract

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.