Staining of anterior lens capsule with Trypan blue for better visualization of capsulorhexis in surgery of mature cataracts

Background A capsulorhexis may be difficult to perform in the absence of a red fundus reflex. Patients and Methods After application of 0.3 mL trypan blue 0.1%, a quick and homogeneous staining of the anterior lens capsule was obtained in 100 p atients with a mature cataract, to visualize the capsulorhexis during a pha coemulsification procedure. Results No adverse reactions related to the dye were observed up to 18 mont hs after surgery. Conclusion Trypan blue staining of the anterior lens capsule may therefore be a safe technique to facilitate the performance of a capsulorhexis in the absence of a red fundus reflex.