To evaluate the effect of a capsular tension ring (CTR) on the change in postoperative refractive errors and anterior chamber depth after cataract surgery in patients with a history of acute primary angle closure (APAC).

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 45 patients who underwent cataract surgery with a history of APAC. Forty five eyes were divided into 2 groups based on whether a CTR was implanted (n = 21) or not (n = 24). Spherical equivalent (SE) refractive errors were compared between the 2 groups for 12 months postoperatively. The postoperative anterior chamber depth (ACD) and volume (ACV) were compared between the 2 groups.

SE refractive errors in the CTR group were -0.59 ± 1.08 D at 6 months and -0.61 ± 1.04 D at 12 months postoperatively. In the non-CTR group, -0.64 ± 1.30 D, at 6 months and -0.67 ± 1.19 D at 12 months postoperatively. There was no statistically significant difference between 2 groups ( p = 0.89, p = 0.84) and postoperative SE refraction shifted to myopic refractive power in both groups ( p < 0.01). The postoperative ACD and ACV also showed no difference between the 2 groups ( p = 0.13, p = 0.47).

The postoperative ACD, ACV and myopic shift in patients with a history of APAC demonstrated no significant difference between CTR-implanted and non-CTR-implanted patient groups.