Cauterization technique for suture erosion in transscleral fixation of intraocular lenses

Int J Ophthalmol. 2013 Dec 18;6(6):892-4. doi: 10.3980/j.issn.2222-3959.2013.06.27. eCollection 2013.

Abstract

Transscleral suturing is a commonly applied technique to fix intraocular implants in the sulcus. A major problem after transscleral implantation is suture erosion that normally happens in the late post-surgery period and may result in an increased incidence of endophthalmitis. Here we describe an original cauterization method by using a glass rod to melt the exposed suture end without damaging the suture knot in the sclera to avoid suture exposure in sclera-fixed IOL implantation. This is a simple, quick and effective technique that can be performed without conjunctiva incisions and will help to reduce suture erosion related complications.

Keywords: cauterization technique; intraocular lenses; suture erosion.