Management of condensation on a foldable acrylic intraocular lens after vitrectomy and fluid-air exchange.

PURPOSE: To describe the management of condensation on the posterior surface of a foldable acrylic intraocular lens during vitrectomy and fluid-air exchange.

METHODS: A 70-year-old pseudophakic man with a foldable acrylic intraocular lens and open posterior capsule underwent vitrectomy and fluid-air exchange for repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

RESULTS: During pars plana vitrectomy and fluid-air exchange, condensation immediately formed on the posterior surface of the foldable acrylic intraocular lens. This condensation, which prevented a view of the retina, was eliminated by wiping the posterior surface of the intraocular lens with a soft-tipped cannula.

CONCLUSION: Although condensation may rapidly form on acrylic intraocular lenses during vitrectomy and fluid-air exchange, it can be managed readily by wiping with a soft-tipped cannula.