Phaco Tip 150:
The Convex Capsule

At slit lamp examination, the anterior surface of the crystalline lens normally appears to be relatively flat or slightly convex. However, on occasion, the convexity will be more pronounced. In the absence of a mature, swollen and white cataract, this sign is often an indication that zonular laxity is present and has permitted the lens to assume a more globular shape. Because of its association with a weak zonule, eyes with pseudoexfoliation often display this finding.

Regardless of whether or not the patient has pseudoexfoliation, the preoperative finding of a convex anterior lens capsule should alert the surgeon to the prospect of dealing with intraoperative zonular laxity. In such cases, the use of the Cataract Support System (disposable version – IMPEX; reusable version – Duckworth and Kent) to support the lens capsule during phacoemulsification and the insertion of an endocapsular tension ring are often beneficial.

* Phaco Tip TM of Richard J. Mackool, M.D.

The parameters (instrument settings) and incision size presented here have been established by the surgeon and do not reflect recommendations by Alcon.