The IOL scaffold technique is an effective intraoperative strategy in managing posterior capsule rupture during cataract surgery. When the posterior capsule ruptures, traditional phacoemulsification poses a significant risk of nucleus drop into the vitreous cavity and for vitreous to prolapse into the anterior segment. The IOL scaffold technique mitigates this by first injecting a foldable intraocular lens into the capsular bag (or sulcus) to act as a mechanical barrier. This creates a stable platform beneath the remaining nuclear fragments, preventing them from descending into the vitreous. The IOL also helps maintain anterior chamber stability, allowing the surgeon to safely complete the phacoemulsification of residual lens material above the lens optic. This approach can reduce the need for a more extensive vitrectomy, perhaps lowering postoperative complications and improving visual outcomes. Proper IOL selection and meticulous surgical technique are essential for success, making the IOL scaffold a valuable tool in the armamentarium for managing intraoperative posterior capsule rupture.
Also this video is from Prof. Dr. Naren Shetty from Narayana Nethralaya in Bangalore, India which is an amazing and truly world-class eye institute which hosts the annual His Master’s Voice cataract and refractive meeting which I have attended the past few years and will attend again in 2026.
