The anterior segment of the eye can be damaged by trauma or sometimes during surgery for other problems like retina repair, glaucoma, or cataracts. Repairing these problems is called anterior segment reconstruction. Anterior segment reconstruction can prove to be a very effective and low-risk method to treat severe ocular trauma or the complications associated with a failed surgery, disease, or eye injury.
Dr. Smith and Dr. Levar specialize in an anterior segment reconstructive procedure called the Yamane technique, which is a sutureless needle-guided intrascleral IOL (intraocular lens) implantation. In place of sutures, an eye funnel is used to secure the haptics of an IOL into the sclera (the white outer layer of the eye). This technique provides good stability of the IOL with a small wound, minimal cornea trauma, no risk of suture exposure, and a lower risk of future complications such as secondary glaucoma.
A video of the Yamane procedure: