Electron microscopy of silicone irrigation/aspiration tips involved in posterior capsule rupture.

We describe 2 cases of posterior capsule rupture caused by Alcon reusable silicone irrigation/aspiration (I/A) tips. Scanning electron microscopy and reflected light microscopy of these tips revealed burring of the inner metallic shafts and tears in the silicone sleeves. A review of surgical video revealed that posterior capsule ruptures caused by the I/A tips occurred when the posterior capsule was aspirated either through the aspiration port or through a tear in the silicone sleeve. Contact of the posterior capsule with the sharp metallic burrs on the inner metal tube can result in posterior capsule rupture.