Tuck-and-pull technique for posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens explantation

Abstract

The tuck-and-pull technique was developed for practical and safe explantations of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lenses (PCPIOLs). In this technique, after the creation of a side port, viscoelastic (or OVD [ophthalmic viscosurgical device]) is initially injected behind the PCPIOL to widen the space between PCPIOL and the crystalline lens. The old incisions can be used after recent implantations rendering the enlargement of the main incision unnecessary. After additional OVD over and under the PCPIOL, the haptic is tucked by a chopper and pulled through the main incision with a single maneuver. The haptic is grasped by two suture forceps and explanted with a 'hand-to-hand' maneuver. The tuck-and-pull technique provided high protection of the corneal endothelium, crystalline lens, anterior chamber structures, and the PCPIOL itself. This technique is a practical, easy, and safe approach for explantations of all PCPIOL types, whatever the reason for its explantation may be.