Posterior Capsulotomy
Posterior capsulotomy is a laser surgical procedure to open the center of the posterior
capsule (the lining of the lens of the eye) to allow the clear passage of light rays. The
procedure is sometimes necessary after cataract surgery.

What does the capsule have to do with cataract surgery?

The lens has a cellophane-like outer lining called the capsule. The most common method of cataract surgery leaves the back or posterior part of the capsule intact after the rest of the lens is removed.

This technique maintains the normal barrier between the inside compartments of the eye. The back part of the capsule may be used to support the intraocular lens implant, usually inserted at the time of cataract surgery.

Why is posterior capsulotomy necessary?
The posterior capsule is normally clear. However, with the passage of time after cataract surgery, this capsule can become cloudy or wrinkled. It acts much like a piece of cellophane, which is easy to see through when stretched tightly, but which causes blurred vision when wrinkled. This wrinkling or cloudiness can interfere with vision in ways similar to the original cataract.

If clouding of the posterior capsule interferes with your vision, your ophthalmologist may perform a Posterior Capsulotomy by surgically making an opening in the capsule to restore normal sight. This can be accomplished with laser surgery. It is not necessary to remove the capsule; rather, an opening is made in the center to allow the clear passage of light rays. Although the laser procedure requires close and precise focusing by your ophthalmologist, the technique is usually painless and immediately successful.

While posterior capsulotomy is usually effective, as with any surgical procedure, rare complications can occur such as swelling or detachment of the retina, and loss of vision.