Continuous curvilinear (circular) capsulorhexis and planned extracapsular cataract extraction--are they compatible?

The successful use of continuous curvilinear (circular) capsulorhexis (CCC) in planned extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) is dependent on the feasibility of safe nuclear delivery through the smaller anterior capsular opening. Experimental evidence supports the proposition that the anterior capsular rim can stretch without tearing to dimensions which allow for safe nucleus delivery. Clinical reports of accidental intracapsular expression during nucleus delivery in CCC seemingly contradict the experimental evidence. This paper examines this apparent contradiction and presents clinical evidence in the form of a series of 210 cases of planned ECCE with CCC. The technique used and a detailed analysis of the operative complications are presented. The results indicate that using a modified technique for nucleus delivery, CCC and planned ECCE are fully compatible techniques.