Equator ring efficacy in maintaining capsular bag integrity and transparency after cataract removal in monkey eyes

Abstract 

· Background: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of the equator ring in maintaining capsular bag integrity at the equator and transparency of the posterior capsule after cataract surgery, using cynomolgus monkeys. · Methods: After lens removal using an infusion-aspiration method, a flexible silicone ring with a groove on its inner surface was inserted in the bag through a window made by continuous circular capsulorhexis in six eyes. Of these, four monkey eyes underwent posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and two monkey eyes did not receive IOLs. Lensectomy without ring insertion was performed as a control in the six fellow eyes. Of these, four eyes received an IOL and two did not. The eyes were followed for an average of 5.9 ± 1.1 months before enucleation. The effects were evaluated by stereo and light microscopy. · Results: The ring effectively maintained the circular contour of the capsular bag (ratio of the short and long axes, 0.97 ± 0.01) and posterior capsule transparency (P = 0.017). · Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the equator ring is a promising device for maintaining capsular bag integrity and minimizing posterior capsule opacification after cataract surgery.