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2737: triangle technique for iris cerclage

Illustration of the triangle technique for iris cerclage showing three paracentesis incisions, spaced 120 degrees apart, as part of a pupilloplasty procedure.

An iris cerclage (purse-string) suture is a valuable pupilloplasty technique used to manage chronic mydriasis when sphincter function is lost but sufficient iris tissue remains. The procedure aims to restore a functional, round pupil, typically 3–4 mm in diameter, improving cosmesis and reducing glare, photophobia, and aberrations. The triangle technique involves three paracentesis incisions spaced about 120 degrees apart then using a 10-0 polypropylene suture (on the long, curved CIF-4 needle) which passed circumferentially through the mid-peripheral iris, approximately 0.5–1 mm from the pupillary margin. Each pass is made sequentially around the pupil to create a continuous loop. When the suture ends are gently drawn and tied, the iris margin constricts in a purse-string fashion, forming a new central pupil. Care must be taken to avoid excessive traction, which may cause iris tearing or distortion. This case takes longer than you think and even though the video is just a few minutes, you should allow 30 minutes for the surgery.

video link here

https://youtu.be/CN5pIspjIyY

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