Empire Retina Consultants is pleased to offer the innovative sutureless Yamane technique, a method used to fix dislocated intraocular lenses (IOLs) after cataract surgery. Since its introduction in 2014, the Yamane technique has been increasing in popularity among eye surgeons because it doesn’t involve gluing and suturing. This saves time in the operating room and requires less materials.
Anyone who is interested in the Yamane technique should contact a retina specialist that offers this procedure. Empire Retina Consultants is one of the few retina surgeons currently offering the Yamane technique, and we have included some of our own modifications to ensure favorable outcomes for our patients.
What is the Yamane Technique?
Lens dislocation can happen during cataract surgery. When this occurs and capsular support is absent, the surgeon will use multiple IOL fixation techniques. More eye surgeons are transitioning from suture techniques to sutureless techniques because they offer faster recoveries and a lower risk for postoperative hypotony (intraocular pressure).
The goal of the Yamane technique is to externalize the haptics of a three-piece IOL using thin needles. The haptics (artificial lenses) are carefully laced into the lumen of the needles, and the needles are used to externalize the haptics on the conjunctival surface. After, low-temperature cautery is used to make a flange at the end of the haptics. This flange protects the haptics from prolapsing into the posterior chamber.
Benefits of the Yamane Technique
It’s important to note that the Yamane technique does not necessarily have any impact on the visual outcomes of the patient following the procedure relative to other techniques. But it does offer benefits in other ways. For example:
- No glue and sutures necessary
- Smaller incisions and wounds
- Allows surgeons to preserve the conjunctiva
- Fewer steps, leading to time saved in the OR
- Helps patients achieve IOL implantation and centration
- Preferred approach for complex anatomy
- Provides reliable and predictable outcomes
The sutureless Yamane technique requires a steep learning curve. However, we believe it’s worth the effort as the technique opens up a more efficient and effective way to fix dislocated IOLs in cataract patients. If you would like to learn more about the Yamane technique, contact Empire Retina Consultants today.