capsular bag
The natural envelope that surrounds the crystalline lens, preserved during cataract surgery to house the intraocular lens implant.
Full Definition
The thin, transparent membrane surrounding the natural lens of the eye, consisting of anterior and posterior portions connected by the lens equator. During modern cataract surgery, the anterior capsule is partially removed while preserving the posterior capsule and equatorial region to create the capsular bag. This preserved structure serves as the ideal location for intraocular lens placement, providing stable support and maintaining the blood-aqueous barrier. Capsular bag integrity is crucial for successful surgical outcomes and long-term lens stability.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenated when used as a compound modifier; 'in-the-bag' placement is standard terminology.
In Context
- "The IOL was successfully placed within the capsular bag with excellent centration." — Operative summary
- "Capsular bag opacification developed six months post-operatively, requiring YAG laser treatment." — Follow-up examination