Abstract
BACKGROUND: To introduce a new flange technique (called the Z.S. fixation technique) for 8 - 0 polypropylene suture in scleral fixation of a one-piece intraocular lens (IOL) and evaluate its effectiveness and safety. METHODS: All surgeries were performed using two strategies. First, the Z.S. fixation technique was used to fix 8 - 0 polypropylene sutures to the sclera and the two haptics of a one-piece IOL, respectively. The one-piece IOL previously implanted in the anterior chamber was then relocated to the posterior chamber. Finally, the suture ends outside the sclera were cauterized into flanges and buried in the sclera. All effectiveness and safety data related to the Z.S. technique were recorded and compared. RESULTS: The Z.S. fixation technique was employed in 16 eyes of 13 patients, with a follow-up duration of at least 6 months. Postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was greatly improved in most of the operated eyes (11/16). The mean log MAR UDVA after surgery was significantly improved compared with that before surgery (0.93 ± 0.72 vs. 1.53 ± 0.73, P = 0.002). IOLs in the vast majority of operated eyes (15/16) remained stable during half-year follow-up. No severe intra-/post-operative complications were observed in any of the operated eyes. CONCLUSION: The Z.S. fixation technique for 8 - 0 polypropylene suture in scleral fixation of one-piece IOL reduced surgical injuries and had ideal surgical effectiveness and safety.