This patient was referred to this anonymous surgeon for cataract surgery. The patient developed a white cataract shortly after having a pars plana vitrectomy for a retinal detachment where silicone oil was used to secure the retina in position. The development of this white cataract shortly after the vitrectomy is a warning sign to the cataract surgeon. We previously covered this topic:
Look at the A-scan image above and you will notice that something that is not right. This patient developed a white cataract after a pars plana vitrectomy because the posterior capsule was damaged by the vitrector.
How would you handle this case?
What about just using the phaco probe with the larger diameter tip (vs I/A) and aspirating the silicone oil with patience? I’ve been in this situation before and it’s not easy!