In Vitro Analysis of Nd:YAG Laser Damage to Hydrophilic Intraocular Lenses

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Damaged optics of an intraocular lens (IOL) can impair visual functioning. Damage can occur during the manufacturing process, during implantation, or during post-implantation Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy. An in vitro experiment was performed to identify the potential IOL damage patterns associated with the use of the Nd:YAG laser for posterior capsulotomy. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A review of the literature regarding Nd:YAG laser damage to IOLs was performed. The objectives were to describe the damage patterns to a sample IOL by performing virtual posterior capsulotomies. RESULTS: Patterns of damage were demonstrated and described. CONCLUSION: Although optic damage can occur with use of the Nd:YAG laser, it is infrequent and usually the result of improper depth of focus.