Surgical indications, outcomes, and complications with the use of a modified capsular tension ring during cataract surgery.

PURPOSE: To determine the surgical indications, outcomes, and complications with the use of modified capsular tension rings (CTRs) during cataract surgery.

SETTING: Ivey Eye Institute, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.

DESIGN: Systematic review.

METHODS: A systematic review of databases was conducted for studies related to the use of modified CTRs during cataract surgery that were published between 1992 and 2015. Primary research papers on human participants published in English were screened. The surgical indications, outcomes, and complications of modified CTR use during cataract surgery were compiled and analyzed.

RESULTS: The search identified 6035 records from published and gray literature. After screening, 10 studies involving 320 eyes were included in the systematic review. The most common surgical indications for modified CTR use were Marfan syndrome (40.3%), idiopathic zonular insufficiency (27.2%), and previous ocular trauma (22.8%). The weighted average of indicated zonular insufficiency was 173 degrees, with 75.4% of eyes achieving visual acuity better than 20/40 postoperatively. The use of modified CTRs resulted in a reduction in intraocular lens (IOL) decentration and tilt. Vitrectomy during surgery was required in 19.8% of eyes. The rate of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) was 41.1%. Intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation, suture breakage, and uveitis were the most common postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS: The use of modified CTRs during cataract surgery was associated with causes of large and progressive zonular insufficiency. Use of the CTR produced good postoperative visual outcome and reduced IOL decentration and/or tilt. The most common complications were PCO, IOP elevation, and suture breakage.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: None of the authors has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.