an unexpected delayed complication of cataract surgery: retinal detachment secondary to capsular tension ring dislocation

Abstract

We aim to present a case of retinal detachment secondary to capsular tension ring dislocation following cataract surgery. A 45-year-old man who underwent cataract surgery 2 years previously presented with decreased vision in his left eye. The patient’s posterior capsule was intact with a well-located posterior chamber intraocular lens. Fundus examination revealed retinal detachment with retinal tears, and a capsular tension ring located around the tear was noticed during pars plana vitrectomy; it was removed through the sclerotomy site. In conclusion, dislocation of the capsular tension ring is a rare and unexpected complication of cataract surgery. Although the integrity of the posterior lens capsule is partially preserved, the ring may shift through a small tear in the bag even during its placement, and may cause retinal tears, retinal detachment or just remain silently suspended in the vitreous.