The author evaluated the results of combined
cataract extraction and transpupillary
silicone oil removal through a single scleral tunnel incision, in eyes that had undergone pars plana
vitrectomy with
silicone oil tamponade. Twenty-four of the 46 eyes were operated on under topical
anesthesia with Blumenthal mode mini-nucleus manual extracapsular
cataract extraction technique (mini-nuc ECCE), and
silicone oil was removed passively through planned posterior
capsulorhexis via the scleral tunnel, followed by endocapsular
intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. The operation was completed without any suturing. The remaining 22 eyes were similarly operated on with the same
cataract extraction technique, but in these cases
silicone oil was classically aspirated actively through pars plana sclerotomies. Results were evaluated by visual acuity measurement, duration of operation, and complications. The transpupillary
silicone oil removal group had significantly less
vitreous hemorrhage (0- 31.8%) and posterior
capsule opacification (0-36.4%). Also, the mean duration of the operation was significantly shorter in this group. There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to postoperative recurrence of
retinal detachment (12.5-18.1%) and visual acuity outcome. The combination of mini-nuc ECCE with transpupillary
silicone oil removal compares favorably with the combination of
silicone oil aspiration through pars plana sclerotomies. This combined technique allows the surgeon to perform the operation under topical
anesthesia and no
sutures are required. The intervention period is shorter and no posterior
capsule opacification or
vitreous hemorrhage develops.