Hydroimplantation: foldable intraocular lens implantation without an ophthalmic viscosurgical device

Abstract

I describe a technique for implantation of a 1-piece acrylic foldable intraocular lens (IOL) using an irrigation cannula of the phaco machine without using an ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD). The irrigating cannula introduced through a side port provides excellent stability and positioning to the eye; if required, the cannula tip is used to guide the leading haptic of the IOL into the capsular bag. The fluid coming from the side port via a bimanual irrigation cannula maintains adequate formation of the capsular bag and anterior chamber while the foldable IOL is inserted. The hydroimplantation technique has the advantage of increased efficiency, reduced surgical time and cost, no need for OVD removal from behind the IOL or for additional instrumentation, no OVD-induced intraocular pressure elevation postoperatively, and no risk of early capsular bag distension syndrome.