Visual outcome and complications following Nd- YAG laser capsulotomy in Posterior Capsular Opacification

Objective: To study the visual outcome and complications following Nd- YAG laser capsulotomy in posterior capsular opacification. Materials and Methods : A hospital based prospective study was done on 100 eyes of 100 patients with posterior capsular opacification. Patients above 40 years of age with history of cataract surgery and complaining of defective vision were included in the study. Detailed eye examination was done and patients diagnosed with posterior capsular opacification underwent Nd- YAG laser capsulotomy. Best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure and complications if any was noted. Results : Study included 100 patients with posterior capsular opacification who underwent Nd YAG laser capsulotomy, 61 were females and 39 males. 69% of posterior capsular opacification was in the age group of 51-70 years. 66% of patients developed PCO between 12 to 36 months after cataract surgery. Elschnig’s pearl was the most common type of posterior capsular opacification with 82%. 88% of patients visual acuity improved to 6/18 and better to 6/6 following Nd- YAG laser capsulotomy. 15% of patients developed minor complications like IOL pitting, transient rise of IOP and cystoid macular oedema. Conclusion : Nd- YAG laser capsulotomy is the widely practiced procedure for the management of Posterior capsular opacification. It is a non invasive, relatively safe technique and can be performed as an outpatient procedure