Morcher Ring
In a small number of cataract patients, the
zonules, or small fibers in the eye that hold the lens in place, are too weak
to keep the lens stable. During cataract surgery and implantion of new lenses
in these patients, the zonules may stretch or break, causing instability and
complications. The use of the capsular tension ring, manufactured by Morcher
GmbH in Stuttgart, Germany, stabilizes the lens capsule and the zonules that
hold it in place, both during surgery and post-operatively, and improves the
chance of a successful completion of the cataract surgery.
These rings are used extensively throughout the world, but in the U.S., the
F.D.A. has yet to grant approval for unrestricted use.Dr. Steinert has been an investigator in the studies of the ring
necessary to obtain F.D.A. approval.
Candidates for endocapsular rings include patients at risk for weakened
zonules, particularly patients with a history of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma,
trauma, or difficulty in previous eye surgery.