Purpose  

To examine the effect of topical administration of mitomycin C (MMC) on the opacification of residual anterior lens capsule in a vitrectomized/lensectomized eye.

Methods  

Adult Japanese albino rabbits (n=8) received two-port vitrectomy and lensectomy with or without topical administration of MMC (0.4 mg/ml) to the residual anterior lens capsule in one eye under both general and topical anesthesia. Four eyes after vitrectomy and lensectomy were exposed to MMC for 1 min and washed out with balanced salt solution. After 1 month, the anterior segment of each globe was observed with EAS-1000 in vivo under general anesthesia and then the enucleated globes were observed through the Miyake view. Histological examination was performed.

Results  

During healing intervals in eyes without MMC exposure, regenerated lens structure of Soemmerings ring or fibrous tissue was formed in peripheral or central areas of the residual capsule, respectively. Both the anterior lens capsule opacification and lens fiber regeneration were statistically significantly reduced by MMC topical exposure.

Conclusion  

Lens epithelial cells produce regenerated lenticular structure and fibrous tissue on the residual capsule following vitrectomy and lensectomy in rabbits. Exposure of the residual anterior capsule to MMC may be effective in reducing both its opacification and lens fiber regeneration after vitrectomy/lensectomy.