International Review of Ophthalmology ›› 2025, Vol. 49 ›› Issue (5): 356-362.doi: 10.3760/cma.i.cn115500-20250725-25506

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Capsular tension ring implantation: techniques and complications

Zhao Yuyang, Qing Guoping   

  1. Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University; Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Beijing 100730, China
  • Received:2025-02-26 Online:2025-10-22 Published:2025-10-16
  • Contact: Qing Guoping, Email: gptsing@mail.ccmu.edu.cn

Abstract: Capsular tension ring (CTR) is widely used in complex cataract surgeries or angle-closure glaucoma surgeries with zonular weakness. It serves to stabilize the intraocular lens (IOL) and the capsular bag, improve postoperative visual outcomes, and prevent further damage to the weak zonule. However, CTR implantation also carries potential risks. Common intraoperative complications include injury to residual zonules, displacement or even luxation of the capsular bag, capsular tear, vitreous prolapse, residual pieces of lens nudear or cortex, corneal endothelial damage, and IOL displacement or drop into the vitreous cavity. Postoperative complications may consist of posterior capsular opacification, anterior capsular contraction syndrome, dislocation of the capsular bag-CTR-IOL complex, elevated intraocular pressure, secondary glaucoma, retinal detachment, and cystoid macular edema. For unpreloaded CTR, the safe and practical method is to import it gentlely with forceps along the inside of the capsular equator. For preloaded CTR, Fish Tail method has been proved to be safe and efficient. 

Key words: Capsular tension ring implantation, Zonular weakness, Glaucoma, Cataract