Lensectomy
 Lensectomy is a microsurgical procedure where specialized instruments and techniques are used to remove either a part of or the entire crystalline lens from the eye. The initial step in this procedure is usually the removal of the lens or lens fragments through a very small "micro-incision" in the wall of the eye. If the entire lens is being removed the surgeon may employ a phacofragmentation, or phacoemulsification technique, where mechanical vibrations or sound waves are used to first break up the lens. The lens or fragments are then removed with a miniature handheld suction device (see illustration). The removal of the lens or lens fragments by this technique may result in a decrease in the eye's internal pressure, which is compensated for by the surgeon with an injection of a special saline solution. The surgeon uses a specialized operating microscope and contact lenses, which allow a clear view of the lens or lens fragments in the vitreous cavity at various magnifications. The procedure is performed in an operating room under local or (occasionally) general anesthesia. It can, and is often done as an ambulatory procedure. This means the patient may be released from the hospital or surgical facility, barring any complications, within 23 hours.
 Lensectomy procedures are sometimes performed through incisions made near the front of the eye (see illustration), through the cornea. This is usually the case when a cataract (a clouded lens) is being removed. Lensectomy incisions are also done via pars plana approach (see illustration), as is commonly the case for lens fragment removal. This is why the procedure is often referred to as a pars plana lensectomy (PPL).
Lensectomy is a microsurgical procedure where specialized instruments and techniques are used to remove either a part of or the entire crystalline lens from the eye. The initial step in this procedure is usually the removal of the lens or lens fragments through a very small "micro-incision" in the wall of the eye. If the entire lens is being removed the surgeon may employ a phacofragmentation, or phacoemulsification technique, where mechanical vibrations or sound waves are used to first break up the lens. The lens or fragments are then removed with a miniature handheld suction device (see illustration). The removal of the lens or lens fragments by this technique may result in a decrease in the eye's internal pressure, which is compensated for by the surgeon with an injection of a special saline solution. The surgeon uses a specialized operating microscope and contact lenses, which allow a clear view of the lens or lens fragments in the vitreous cavity at various magnifications. The procedure is performed in an operating room under local or (occasionally) general anesthesia. It can, and is often done as an ambulatory procedure. This means the patient may be released from the hospital or surgical facility, barring any complications, within 23 hours.
Lensectomy procedures are sometimes performed through incisions made near the front of the eye (see illustration), through the cornea. This is usually the case when a cataract (a clouded lens) is being removed. Lensectomy incisions are also done via pars plana approach (see illustration), as is commonly the case for lens fragment removal. This is why the procedure is often referred to as a pars plana lensectomy (PPL).
Pars plana lensectomy (PPL) may be a useful adjunct in the management of the vitreo-retinal disorders such as those listed below:
- Intraocular Foreign Body
- Retained lens fragments or dislocated lens implants
(following cataract surgery)
- Complex Retinal Detachments
Lensectomy surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours or longer depending on the complexity of the case or the combination of other procedures such as vitrectomy. The risks associated with the surgery include infection, bleeding, retinal tears or detachments. It is important that you discuss the potential risks and benefits of this procedure with your surgeon before making a decision regarding treatment.
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