Stress fractures after folding an acrylic intraocular lens

Abstract

Purpose: To manage the complication of stress fractures in foldable acrylic intraocular lenses.

Methods: During an implantation of a foldable acrylic intraocular lens (AcrySof, Alcon Laboratories, Fort Worth, Texas), the optic was noted to have developed paracentral stress fractures along the fold approximately 50% deep.

Results: The lens was explanted and replaced without difficulty.

Conclusions: The observed complication can be avoided by recognizing that it might occur, wetting the lens before slowly folding it, and inspecting it carefully before insertion.