Comparison of Two Laser Capsulotomy Techniques: Cruciate Versus Circular

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the safety and efficacy of two Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy techniques. Methods: In this prospective comparative interventional case series, 60 eyes of 57 patients with posterior capsular opacification were enrolled. Thirty eyes were selected to undergo a cruciate capsulotomy (Cross group) and the other 30 eyes were selected to undergo a circular capsulotomy (Circular group). Main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), amount of energy used, mean macular thickness (MMT), and floater symptoms. Results: The amount of energy used was significantly higher in the Circular group than in the Cross group (p 0.05). The number of patients with floater symptoms was significantly higher in the Circular group than in the Cross group at one week and one month (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Both the cross-like and circular Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy techniques induce similar visual and IOP changes. The circular technique is associated with a higher amount of energy used, more floater symptoms, and has a greater effect on macular thickness at one day after laser capsulotomy.