Effect of trypan blue on the elasticity of the human anterior lens capsule

Abstract

Trypan blue staining affected the biomechanical properties of the human lens capsule and led to a significant reduction in elasticity and an increase in stiffness. These results confirm clinical reports of changes in the capsule by dye and should be taken into consideration in dye-enhanced cataract surgery.

Trypan blue staining for capsulorhexis: Ultrastructural effect on lens epithelial cells and capsules

“…For example, in a comparative study using biomechanical stress measurements in 55 crystalline capsules of trypan blue-stained pig eyes, Wollensak et al 22 found that structures stained with trypan blue and exposed to light for at least 1 minute during surgery had capsular hardening and a consequent reduction in elasticity. These results are supported by the findings of Dick et al 17 in samples of human cataract. Both studies indicate the ability of trypan blue to modify the basal lamina, even in the absence of histological analysis.…”

Comparison of capsulorhexis resistance to tearing with and without trypan blue dye using a mechanized tensile strength model

“…In a study by Dick et al, 12 staining with trypan blue significantly decreased the elasticity and increased the stiffness of the capsule using testing strips of anterior capsule obtained from 19 eyes during cataract surgery. The elasticity measurements were obtained using a modified rheometer and compared with measurements in controls.…”

“…[5][6][7][8][9][10] Trypan blue has been reported to cause changes in the lens capsule that may result in decreased elasticity and increased stiffness. [11][12][13] One study 11 found that it may have a role as a photosensitizer, resulting in crosslinking of capsule collagen. The effect of trypan blue on lens epithelial cells (LECs) has been studied for possible use in prevention of capsular bag opacification.…”

Trypan blue dye for anterior segment surgeries

“…54 The impairment of elastic properties of the lens capsule could increase the risk for capsular tears and may result in a higher incidence of intraoperative complications. A reduction in the elasticity of the anterior capsule has been reported in studies using human anterior capsule, 54 with a suggestion that this is more significant in diabetic, compared with non-diabetic patients, 55 in a process that appears to be light-exposure dependent. 56 TB has also been reported to stain hydrophilic acrylic IOLs in digital image analysis, but not poly methylmethacrylate or silicone lenses 12 after prolonged exposure of 180 min in in vitro testing.…”