Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Retained Lens Fragments in the Anterior Chamber Following Phacoemulsification

Abstract

Background: Visual results may be impacted by problems such corneal edema, intraocular inflammation, and elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) that can result from retained lens fragments in the anterior chamber after phacoemulsification. To reduce problems and enhance prognosis, early detection and suitable treatment are essential.

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the clinical features, management strategies, and visual outcomes of patients with retained lens fragments in the anterior chamber after phacoemulsification.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 100 patients with retained lens fragments post-phacoemulsification at Katihar Medical College, Bihar. Clinical presentation, management approaches (conservative vs. surgical), and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 65.4 ± 8.3 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.2:1. The most common presenting symptoms were blurred vision (78%) and increased IOP (46%). Management strategies included topical therapy (35%), anterior chamber washout (47%), and pars plana vitrectomy (18%). At 3 months, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved significantly (p < 0.001), with 65% achieving good vision (BCVA ? 0.3 LogMAR). Postoperative complications were observed in 24% of cases, with persistent corneal edema (10%) being the most frequent.

Conclusion: Retained lens fragments in the anterior chamber can significantly impact postoperative recovery. Early surgical intervention, particularly anterior chamber washout, is correlated with better visual outcomes. Although complications occur, most patients achieve satisfactory vision recovery with appropriate management.

Recommendations: Routine postoperative examination should be emphasized for early detection of retained lens fragments. Timely surgical intervention is recommended for cases with persistent inflammation or increased IOP.

Keywords: Retained lens fragments, phacoemulsification, anterior chamber, visual outcomes, intraocular pressure.