Crystalline lens capsule staining with trypan blue

A 1-step method for staining the anterior lens capsule with trypan blue is described. The dye is instilled via a paracentesis port at the start of cataract extraction. As aqueous humor is allowed to exit the anterior chamber (AC), which consequently shallows, the resulting pupil block confines the dye to the AC. An ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) is used to flush dye-stained aqueous from the AC, circumventing the need for AC washout. Although the OVD may be tinged with dye, this does not impede performing capsulorhexis. This method does not add to the surgical time, requires no additional instruments or materials, and is safe.