Uveitis–glaucoma–hyphema syndrome after uneventful placement of a 1-piece intraocular lens into the capsular bag

Introduction: Uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema (UGH) syndrome is an uncommon but serious complication of cataract surgery that occurs from chafing of the iris by an intraocular lens (IOL). UGH syndrome is typically associated with first-generation lenses, placement of an IOL in the ciliary sulcus, or bag-sulcus tilted positioning. UGH syndrome following placement of a modern 1-piece lens in the capsular bag is rare. Patient and clinical findings: A 55-year-old man presented with UGH syndrome 2 weeks after routine cataract surgery with in-the-bag placement of a contemporary IOL. Diagnosis, intervention, and outcomes: Correct positioning of the IOL was confirmed with ultrasound biomicroscopy and exploratory surgery, and IOL exchange achieved resolution of UGH sequelae. Conclusions: Intermittent chafing of the iris by the IOL as a result of underlying traumatic zonulopathy contributed to the development of UGH, and surgeons should be aware of this complication even with in-the-bag placement of a modern IOL.