Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy: a survey of UK practice and recommendations.

PurposeTO determine national trends in YAG laser capsulotomy practice in the NHS.MethodsA total of 300 consultants were randomly selected, based on a list from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, to receive a postal questionnaire. It included 10 questions about YAG capsulotomy technique and postcapsulotomy management.ResultsA total of 158 (53%) replies were received; 132 (83.5%) questionnaires were completed correctly. Most consultants dilate the pupil prior to treatment (98.5%) and use contact lens (87.9%), with 63.5% reporting using contact lenses for more than one indication. Nearly half of the consultants used cruciate laser pattern (47.0%). Most aimed for capsulotomy size larger than undilated pupil size (64.4%). A total of 42.4% used postoperative steroid drops, 61.8% for 1 week. Half used postlaser intraocular pressure-lowering drops with the majority used as 1-stat dose (85.1%). A total of 60% are not reviewing cases. Cases reviewed are mostly seen by doctors, with 50% reviewed 1 month postlase...