Surface calcification of hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens related to inflammatory membrane formation after combined vitrectomy and cataract surgery

J Cataract Refract Surg. 2010 Apr;36(4):676-81. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2009.08.045.

Abstract

Two patients complained of blurred vision approximately 6 months after having combined vitrectomy and phacoemulsification with implantation of a C-flex 570C hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL). Multiple granules were noted on the anterior surface of the IOLs in both patients. Intraocular lens exchange was performed in both eyes, and the explanted IOLs were sent for histopathological analysis. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the presence of cracks and granules on the IOL surfaces and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy demonstrated calcium deposition. Based on the calcification pattern on the anterior surface of the IOLs, 2 additional cases of opacification were identified under slitlamp examination.

Financial disclosure: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acrylic Resins*
  • Calcinosis / etiology*
  • Calcinosis / metabolism
  • Calcinosis / pathology
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Device Removal
  • Electron Probe Microanalysis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lens Implantation, Intraocular
  • Lenses, Intraocular*
  • Membranes / pathology
  • Membranes / ultrastructure
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
  • Middle Aged
  • Phacoemulsification*
  • Prosthesis Failure*
  • Reoperation
  • Vitrectomy*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Acrylic Resins
  • Calcium