Finite element analysis of neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet incisions for the prevention of anterior capsule contraction syndrome
Wang, Y-ling.; Wang, Z-ze.; Zhao, L.; Xiong, S-hong.; Li, Q.; Wang, N-li.; Sun, A-qiang.
Chinese Medical Journal 126(4): 692-696
2013
ISSN/ISBN: 0366-6999 PMID: 23422191 Document Number: 667710
Anterior capsular contraction syndrome is a potential complication of continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC). Three neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser relaxing incisions decrease anterior capsular contraction but the mechanism is unknown. The present study analyzed the biomechanical mechanism of three Nd:YAG laser relaxing incisions made to reduce anterior capsular contraction. A three-dimensional control model and a three-dimensional Nd:YAG model of the anterior capsule with an opening diameter of 6 mm were created. Three incisions of 1 mm in length were made centrifugally at intervals of 120° around the opening circle. The stress alterations of the anterior capsule after CCC with and without Nd:YAG relaxation were numerically simulated and compared. In the control model, the stress was axially uniform in the inner area and relatively high near the inner rim of the opening. Meanwhile, in the Nd:YAG model, the stress level was very low in the inner opening areas, especially near the three incisions. The relaxing incisions in the Nd:YAG model significantly released the relatively high stress on the anterior capsule. Additionally, there was a high stress gradient near the relaxing incisions. Biomechanical effects of stress release may be the preventive mechanism of Nd:YAG incision against anterior capsular contraction syndrome.