Purpose: To describe a new technique for remnant removal in cases of posterior capsular rupture during cataract surgery and Soemmering ring extraction during intraocular lens (IOL) removal.
Methods: An IOL injector, inserted into the anterior chamber, provides a new exit for residual lens fragments. Passive fluid flow, supplied by an anterior chamber maintainer or some ocular viscoelastic device (OVD) injection, delivers the residual fragments into a lumen of the injector in assistance with a second device such as a phaco-chopper and vitreous cutter.
Results: Soemmering rings can be removed safely through small incisions even when under the iris. Nucleus fragments in anterior chamber can be removed safely. Fragments that fall into the vitreous cavity can float up for removal by passive flow.
Conclusions: This new technique, remnant extraction through lens injector with essential flow, has several practical advantages over existing methods including reduced OVD injection and smaller incision size. It may offer an alternative to existing methods of remnant removal in cases of posterior capsular rupture during cataract surgery and Soemmering ring extraction.