Capsular Staining With Gentian Violet

     Purpose: Describe a new alternative technique, practical and efficacious, using gentian violet, witch allows a clear view of the anterior capsule during circular continuous capsu­lorhexis (CCC) in very mature or without reflex cataracts, more frequent in very elderly people.

     Methods: The authors developed a new technique of anterior capsular staining with gentian violet, dissolved in BSS in a concentration of 0,01%. This paper presents the entire technique, from prime matter preparation and in vitro tests to the description of the technique in vivo and its difficulties.

     Results: In the 50 cases where this technique was performed, an excellent visualization of the anterior capsule was achieved without intra or postoperative complications.

     Conclusion: Upon assessing the advantages and disadvantages of the technique deve­loped, the authors conclude that this technique with gentian violet is a practical and effica­cious way of visualizing the lens anterior capsule.