Cataract extraction in cases of cataract with vitreous abnormality.

Since good visibility of the deeper structures of the eye is a prerequisite for vitreous surgery, a lentectomy is often performed in combination with vitreous surgery even when the lens is only slightly cataractous. Clear lenses may have to be removed when complete intraocular gas tamponade is utilized (treatment of giant tears 180 degrees and larger). A pars plana approach is recommended, and the lens is removed with the vitrectomy instruments as long as the nucleus is not too hard. Otherwise, phacoemulsifying instruments are needed. The techniques are described. The worst complication of posterior lentectomy is loss of lens material into the vitreous cavity.