Erbium:YAG Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To assess the safety and efficacy of erbium:YAG laser-assisted cataract removal. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A total of 15 patients underwent cataractous lens removal. All the patients had a visual acuity of 20/50 or worse secondary to senile cataract. The endothelial cell count was calculated preoperatively and at 6 weeks postoperatively. A 2.94-micron-wavelength erbium: YAG laser with a zirconium-fluoride fiber optic and silica tip was used to fracture and emulsify the nucleus. The erbium:YAG laser was chosen due to its high absorption in water, a primary component of a cataractous lens. RESULTS: The postoperative visual acuity was 20/30 or better in all the eyes that were treated with surgery. The endothelial cell loss at 3 months was 0% to 10%. No laser-related complications were noted. A conversion to an ultrasound surgical technique was utilized in six cases. Vitreous loss occurred in one case due to the posterior extension of an anterior capsulotomy tear. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the ability of an erbium:YAG laser system to safely and effectively emulsify the lens nucleus. Laser-assisted cataract surgery is a promising new clinical procedure.