[Frequency of Nd:YAG capsulotomy after implantation of PMMA and silicon intraocular lenses].
UNLABELLED: The aim of this investigation was to ascertain the frequency of secondary cataract after implantation of PMMA or Silicone IOLs. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In our series of patients we implanted 900 PMMA IOLs in a period of 4 years. In the following 3 years we implanted 1600 silicone IOLs. After the operation, a Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was indicated there was a reduction in visual acuity and the patient asked for improvement. With the help of computer documentation we had the possibility to follow up a period of 6 years after PMMA and 3 years after silicone IOL implantation. RESULTS: (1) PMMA IOL: After implantation of PMMA IOLs we found a frequency of 22% capsulotomies during the investigation period of 6 years; 4.9% of them occurred during the 1st year and 8% during the 2nd year. (2) Silicone IOL: During the control period of 3 years we found a capsulotomy rate of 9.9%. Most happened in the 1st year. CONCLUSIONS: Our 22.9% capsulotomy rate after PMMA IOL implantation is lower than the rate mentioned in the literature. We noticed a peak of capsulotomies in the 2nd year after the operation. During a control period of only 3 years after implantation of silicone IOLs we found a capsulotomy rate of 9.9%.