Pars plana fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses.

Given the problems associated with iris-sutured and scleral-fixated intraocular lenses (IOLs), pars plana fixation might be a safer and more effective approach. Significant improvements in lens design and materials, and changes in surgical approach and technique may now make pars plana fixation an attractive alternative. As contrasted with Girard's technique (1981), the implant loops would not be incorporated (buried) into the scleral wall, nor would the IOL be inserted through the pars plana. Advantages of a pars plana fixation include the low risk of intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage, and the chance of avoiding contact between the IOL, iris, and pars plicata, depending on the lens design. Only the nonpigmented inner layer of the pars plana would be in direct contact with the haptic of the IOL. Thus, pigment dispersion should not occur unless there is contact with the iris.