Flexible iris hooks for phacoemulsification in patients with iridoschisis

Flexible iris hooks, or retractors, can be used to facilitate cataract remo val by phacoemulsification in patients with primary iridoschisis. This rare condition is associated with fibrillary degeneration of the iris, narrow d rainage angles, and cataract. In addition to their conventional use as iris retractors, iris hooks can control the degenerate fibrillary iris stroma t o improve the view and access to the lens, preventing further damage during phacoemulsification and cortical cleanup. Iris hooks are widely available, easily handled, and can transform a difficult case into one that is almost routine. (C) 2000 ASCRS and ESCRS.