Five-point capsule and iris stabilization using iris retractors for generalized zonular weakness: a retrospective study.

Abstract

Cataract surgery in patients with zonular weakness presents significant challenges and is associated with a higher risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications. Stabilization of the capsular bag using iris hooks during phacoemulsification is one approach to mitigate these risks. While previous studies have reported four-point iris hook fixation, our objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of five-point capsular stabilization in patients with generalized zonular weakness.Please confirm if the author names are presented accurately and in the correct sequence (given name, middle name/initial, family name). Author 2 Given name: [Saadet Gültekin] Last name [Irgat]. Also, kindly confirm the details in the metadata are correct.Dear Editorial Office, Thank you for your message. The author names are presented correctly except for Author 2. Please update the metadata for Author 2 as follows: Given name: SaadetFamily name: Gültekin IrgatAll other author details and metadata are correct. Thank you for your assistance. Kind regards, PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sixteen eyes of 14 patients with zonular weakness due to pseudoexfoliation who underwent phacoemulsification with five-point capsule and iris hook stabilization at Kütahya City Hospital were analyzed retrospectively. All surgeries were completed successfully. Adequate capsular stabilization was achieved using the five-point capsule and iris retractor configuration, and no intraoperative complications were observed. No clinically significant postoperative complications were observed among patients available for follow-up. Five-point capsular stabilization using iris retractors appears to be a safe and feasible technique for managing cataract surgery in eyes with generalized zonular weakness associated with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. The additional retractor positioned adjacent to the main incision may help reduce anterior tenting and facilitate intraoperative maneuvers. However, comparative studies are required to determine whether this configuration offers advantages over previously described stabilization techniques.