Single suture customized loop for large iridodialysis repair

Abstract

Managing large iridodialysis that may occur during phacoemulsification is challenging. I describe how a procedure to reposit a prolapsed iris while the anterior chamber is markedly inflated by a current of infusion fluid may inadvertently lead to large iridodialysis, and discuss how to avoid such a complication. I describe a fast and efficient technique for managing large iridodialysis both immediately, once it occurs, or as a secondary maneuver. My technique involved fixing the iris periphery back to its root at the anterior chamber angle using 10-0 polypropylene suture with two straight needles introduced directly through the cornea at distant points, and an insulin syringe as a guide track to a point 1.5 mm from the limbus at the base of a triangular scleral flap that was designed to be centered on the area of iridodialysis. I confirmed the simplicity, efficacy, and safety of my technique through a 1-year follow-up period.