[Clear lens extraction: visual outcomes and vitreoretinopathy frequence].

PURPOSE To evaluate visual results and vitreoretinopathy and retinal detachment frequencies in patients with and without prophylactic pre-equatorial retinal photocoagulation, who underwent clear lens extraction (CLE) to correct myopia. METHODS Thirty-five patients (60 eyes) that underwent clear lens extraction at the "Fundação Altino Ventura" had median follow-up of 20.5 months. They were classified into 3 groups: Group I that was submitted to preoperative 360 degrees preequatorial retinal photocoagulation; Group II that was submitted to prophylactic photocoagulation around predisposing lesions; and Group III that was not submitted to preoperative retinal photocoagulation. The presence of corrected visual acuity (CVA), refractional spherical equivalent (RSE) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV), predisposing lesions and retinal detachment (RD) was evaluated. RESULTS Median corrected visual acuity value rose from 0.2 in the preoperative period to 0.5 in the postoperative period and refractional spherical equivalent decreased from -17SD to -1.7SD. There was no retinal detachment, but vitreous retinal traction areas appeared in 4 eyes (2 submitted to 360 degrees laser and 2 not submitted to laser) and 1 case of choroidal neovascularization also occurred. CONCLUSIONS Clear lens extraction was an effective and predictable surgery to reduce myopias and an apparently safe procedure in patients with and without prophylactic preequatorial retinal photocoagulation. A longer follow-up in a larger group may validate its safety as a refractive surgery.