In-the-bag hyphema after intraocular lens implantation

Abstract In-the-bag hyphema, the collection of blood in the endocapsular space between the posterior capsule and the intraocular lens (IOL), is a rare postoperative complication of IOL implantation in the capsular bag. We report three cases. In Case 1, the hyphema did not obscure the visual axis and thus no treatment was given; the hyphema reabsorbed spontaneously within 3 months. Case 2 was successfully treated with a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy. Although a fibrin membrane on the IOL's anterior surface in Case 3 made it difficult, an Nd:YAG capsulotomy was performed followed by subsequent YAG laser dissection of the fibrin membrane. We believe that for improved simplicity, safety, and efficacy in such a case, membrane dissection should be done at the time of the capsulotomy.