PCO prevention with endocapsular equator rings

Abstract

An endocapsular equator ring (E-ring), a closed ring with a square edge, is made of flexible silicone. The loops of the intraocular lens (IOL) are fixed in the inner groove of the E-ring. The ring prevents development of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) by stopping the posterior movement of postoperative metamorphosed lens epithelial cells at the equator. There is no contact between the IOL and the posterior capsule. The posterior capsule retains transparency without touching the IOL. The ring, which has a 9.5-mm outer edge diameter, fits most eyes except those of patients with high myopia. Besides the high success of the device in preventing PCO, the E-ring has another important potential, that is, it facilitates late IOL exchanges. In addition, the developmental process of PCO is shown through histochemical observation.