Displacement of bag-placed hydrogel lenses into the vitreous following neodymium: YAG laser capsulotomy.

We report two cases in which hydrogel lens implants have dislocated posteriorly into the vitreous body following YAG laser capsulotomy. These lenses were placed in the bag in conjunction with a capsulorhexis. A comparison with our results using silicone and poly(methyl methacrylate) implants indicates that this phenomenon has occurred only with hydrogel implants. Analysis of the various parameters associated with the laser capsulotomy procedure suggests that the overall length and design of the hydrogel implants were key factors. Because of the severity of this complication, we have discontinued the use of this type of implant.