Cracked cartridges during foldable intraocular lens implantation

We describe five routine phacoemulsification procedures in which a longitudinal split in the injector cartridge occurred during foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. In some cases, this was associated with a broken lens. All lenses (STAAR AA-4203VF) were folded, and implantation was attempted through a 3.5 mm corneal or scleral incision. Visual outcome was not adversely affected in any case. The systems for introducing foldable IOLs have not been perfected, and further refinements in materials and techniques are required.