Frequency of Nd:YAG capsulotomy after implantation of intraocular lenses out of PMMA and silicone

The aim of this investigation was to ascertain the frequency of secondary cataract after implantation of PMMA or Silicone IOLs. Patients and methods: In our series of patients we implanted 900 PMMA IOLs in a period of 4 years. In the following 3 years we implanted 1600 silicone IOLs. After the operation, a Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy was indicated there was a reduction in visual acuity and the patient asked for improvement. With the help of computer documentation we had the possibility to follow up a period of 6 years after PMMA and 3 years after silicone IOL implantation. Results: (1) PMMA IOL: After implantation of PMMA IOLs we found a frequency of 22% capsulotomies during the investigation period of 6 years; 4.9% of them occurred during the 1st year and 8% during the 2nd year. (2) Silicone IOL: During the control period of 3 years we found a capsulotomy rate of 9,9%. Most happened in the 1st year. Conclusions: Our 22.9% capsulotomy rate after PMMA IOL implantation is lower than the rate mentioned in the literature. We noticed a peak of capsulotomies in the 2nd year after the operation. During a control period of only 3 years after implantation of silicone IOLs we found a capsulotomy rate of 9.9%.