To report early capsular block syndrome (CBS) after phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) insertion combined with vitrectomy.

Medical records of 622 eyes of 589 patients who had combined phacoemulsification, IOL implantation and vitrectomy between March 2009 and December 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Among patients with CBS occurring within 1 month of surgery, the patient's baseline characteristics, type of IOL and ophthalmic viscoelastic devices were analyzed.

Nine patients (1.45%) developed CBS with typical capsular bag distension. All CBS occurred within 2 weeks after the surgery. Hydrophilic, large optics and no angulation between optic and haptic were related with the occurrence of CBS. Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy (5 eyes), and surgical capsulectomy (2 eyes) resolved CBS successfully. In 2 eyes with gas tamponade, CBS resolved without intervention with the absorption of gas.

CBS may develop after phacoemulsification with PC IOL insertion combined with vitrectomy and/or vitreous tamponade. Hydrophilic material, large optics and no angulation were risk factors of capsular block by enhancing adhesion between the capsulorrhexis and the optic.