A Study of Nd:YAG Laser Capsulotomy in the Management of Posterior Capsular Opacification

Aims: To study the visual outcome following Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy and to study the complications associated with Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. Material and Methods: The study included a total of 100 eyes of 100 patients who fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Once diagnosed to have posterior capsular opacification they were subjected to a detailed clinical examination. All patients underwent Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. Patients were followed up at 1 hour, 4 hour, 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 month. At every follow up detailed examination was done. BCVA and any complications were noted. Results: Post-laser, 87% patients had BCVA 6/12 or more at 3 month follow up. 10% patients had BCVA 6/24 to 6/18. Only 3% patients had visual acuity improved to less than 6/24. Out of 3 patients, 1 patient had visual acuity improved to 6/60&in remaining 2 visual acuity improved to 6/36. The complications were seen in 31 (31%) patients. Most common complication observed was transient rise in IOP. 17 eyes (17%) had transiently raised IOP. Second most common noted was pitting of IOL. Pitting was present in 7 (7%) patients, 3 (3%) patients had ruptured anterior face of vitreous, 2 (2%) patients had iritis, 1 (1%) had hyphema and 1 (1%) developed CME. IOP rise was related to grade of PCO and energy used. Conclusion: Improvement in visual acuity after Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy is excellent. Complications associated with Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy are minimal. Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy is a safe method of restoring vision in patients with posterior capsule opacification.