REVIEW   

Minerva Oftalmologica 2017 June;59(2):42-51

DOI: 10.23736/S0026-4903.17.01776-7

Copyright © 2017 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Anterior capsulotomy integrity after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery

Joobin HOOSHMAND ¹, Brendan J. VOTE ^{1, 2} ✉

¹ Tasmanian Eye Institute, South Launceston, Australia; ² University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia

Anterior capsule opening has become one of the most integral steps of cataract surgery. We examine the evolution of capsulotomy in cataract surgery with a particular emphasis on femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) created capsulotomy. We evaluate FLACS capsulotomy safety, precision and integrity and outline future prospects from an independent perspective using our own published clinical experience as well as over 500 femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery related publications currently available. The future for capsulotomy creation remains bright but grounded with our gold standard continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis. Although FLACS has the ability to create highly precise and reproducible anterior capsule openings, in shape and size, its ultimate success and clinical utility relies upon the integrity of its capsulotomy and ability to create improved visual outcomes. This article provides an in-depth analysis of these factors to allow surgeons careful consideration of their choice.

KEY WORDS: Laser - Cataract extraction - Ophthalmologic surgical procedures - Capsulotomy