Clear lens extraction

As opposed to procedures that use lasers to make corrections to the corneal surface, such as LASIK, the clear lens extraction procedure uses the same procedures as cataract surgery. ==Indications==

Clear lens extraction can be done in patients with severe refractive error and/or presbyopia who wish to avoid spectacles. It is often necessary in patients with severe refractive error who cannot undergo other refractive procedures such as LASIK or photorefractive keratectomy. A study also found that CLE is even more effective than laser peripheral iridotomy in patients with angle closure glaucoma. A systematic review comparing lens extraction and laser peripheral iridotomy for treating acute primary angle closure found that lens extraction potentially provides better intraocular pressure control and reduces medication needs over time. However, it remains uncertain if it significantly lowers the risk of recurrent episodes or reduces the need for additional surgeries. ==Procedure==

Procedure is similar to cataract surgery, most commonly followed by an intraocular lens implantation. In patients requiring only distance vision correction, a conventional mono-focal intraocular lens is placed in both eyes after the clear lens is removed. The intraocular lens power calculations for clear lens extraction is similar to calculations used for conventional cataract surgery. After removal of lens material, the viscoelastic solution initially instilled is removed from the anterior chamber, intraocular lens is inserted and the corneal wound is closed by stromal hydration method. ==Complications==

In addition to the common complications of cataract surgery, clear lens extraction may also cause premature posterior vitreous detachment and retinal detachment, ==History==

As opposed to the more commonly performed cataract treatment, the idea of removing the lens exclusively for refractive purposes first emerged in the 18th century. French ophthalmologist Abbé Desmonceaux may be the first to suggest such an operation in 1776 for a patient with high myopia. The first systematic work on clear lens extraction was carried out by Polish ophthalmologist Vincenz Fukala in Vienna. Fucala advised clear lens extraction in young high myopic (−13 diopters or more) patients with poor vision and inability to work. ==References==