Abstract
BACKGROUND: Moderate-to-severe lens subluxation poses surgical challenges due to extensive zonular weakness and the need to maintain stable intraocular lens (IOL) positioning while preserving the capsular bag. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the outcomes and safety of a modified technique using intrascleral suture fixation of a standard capsular tension ring (CTR) to preserve the capsular bag in moderate-to-severe lens subluxation. DESIGN: Retrospective, single-center case series. METHODS: Consecutive eyes with 120°-300° zonular dialysis underwent phacoemulsification via a 2.4 mm clear corneal incision and a 0.8 mm lateral incision. Capsular bag stabilization was achieved by intrascleral fixation of a standard CTR using a knotless Z-suture with double-strand 8-0/9-0 polypropylene, followed by in-the-bag IOL implantation. Primary outcomes were postoperative IOL centration and corrected-distance visual acuity (CDVA); secondary outcomes included refractive error and complications. Follow-up was scheduled at 1, 3, 6 months (some at 12 months) and annually thereafter. RESULTS: Sixteen eyes of nine patients were included. Median follow-up was 328.0 days (interquartile range (IQR) 256.5, 443.0). Median logMAR CDVA improved from 0.35 (IQR 0.30, 0.57) preoperatively to 0.19 postoperatively. Mean absolute spherical equivalent decreased from 9.82 ± 1.02 D to 1.16 ± 0.25 D. IOLs were well‑centered in 13 eyes (81.3%); a slight, clinically insignificant tilt was observed in 3 eyes (18.7%). One intraoperative posterior capsule rupture did not preclude in-the-bag IOL implantation. Two eyes had transient postoperative intraocular pressure elevation managed medically. No other significant complications occurred. CONCLUSION: Intrascleral fixation of a standard CTR is a simple, accessible, and effective bag-preserving technique for moderate-to-severe lens subluxation, enabling stable in-the-bag IOL implantation with favorable visual and refractive outcomes. REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT06627062.