Retained Lens Fragment after Cataract Surgery

A retained lens fragment refers to a fragment of the eye’s natural lens that remains within the eye following cataract surgery. This occurrence usually happens due to weakness in the supporting structures that hold the natural lens in place. These weakened tissues may not withstand the manipulation required during cataract surgery, leading to inadvertent breakage of the lens supporting structures. As a result, a fragment of the natural lens may fall into the back of the eye where they cannot be safely removed during cataract surgery.

Retained lens fragments can cause complications such as inflammation, elevated eye pressure, and retinal damage. Management typically depends on the size of the retained fragment as well as existing complications.  If the remaining lens material is significant or when complications arise, surgical intervention by a vitreoretinal surgeon is often indicated to remove retained lens fragments, reduce inflammation, and prevent further vision-threatening complications.

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