Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
capsulotomy
Pronunciation: kap-soo-LOT-oh-mee
Creation of an opening in the lens capsule, either during cataract surgery or to treat posterior capsule opacification.
Full Definition
Capsulotomy refers to surgical techniques that create openings in the lens capsule for various therapeutic purposes. Anterior capsulotomy is performed during cataract surgery to access and remove the lens contents, typically using a capsulorhexis technique for continuous circular tearing. Posterior capsulotomy is performed with YAG laser to treat posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can develop months to years after cataract surgery and cause visual symptoms similar to the original cataract.
Usage
Usage note: Specify anterior vs. posterior and surgical vs. laser technique for clarity.
In Context
- "YAG laser posterior capsulotomy successfully cleared the visual axis and restored 20/20 vision." — Laser procedure note
- "A well-centered anterior capsulotomy was created to facilitate lens removal during phacoemulsification." — Cataract surgery report
Also known as
capsule opening
Don't confuse with
capsulorhexis
capsulectomy