Capsular Outcomes Differ with Capsulorhexis Sizes after Pediatric Cataract Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Capsular outcomes of anterior/posterior capsulorhexis opening (ACO/PCO) are essential for performing a secondary in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation. To compare the capsular outcomes with different primary capsulorhexis sizes, Thirty-eight eligible patients (45 eyes) were randomly assigned to three groups by anterior capsulorhexis diameter (Group A: 3.0-3.9, Group B: 4.0-5.0, and Group C: 5.1-6.0 mm). The areas of ACO/PCO and posterior capsule opening opacity (PCOO) as primary outcomes, while, the incidence of visual axis opacity (VAO) as secondary outcome were measured at follow-up visits. Among the thirty eyes included in the final analysis, the mean area of the ACO decreased significantly, whereas the PCO enlarged with time. Group A had the highest anterior capsule constriction and percentage reduction, which increased with time. There were significant differences in the percentage reductions at 6 months and 1 year compared to 1 month in Group A and B. Group C had the highest posterior capsule enlargement. The percentage of PCOO to PCO area and the incidence of VAO was highest in Group A and lowest in Group C. Thus, Capsulorhexis diameter of 4.0-5.0 mm may yield better capsular outcomes, considering moderate contraction of ACO, moderate enlargement of PCO, and lower percentage of PCOO and VAO.