A Comparative Study of Peripheral Capsular Linear Incision and Circular Micro-Tear Capsulotomy in the In Situ Regeneration of Rabbit Eyes

Background Lens regeneration is regarded as a promising strategy for restoring vision in cataract patients after surgery. However, conventional small curvilinear capsulorhexis often results in the loss of anterior capsular lens epithelial cells, thereby compromising the integrity and transparency of the regenerated lens. Building on the concept of small capsulorhexis, this study introduces a 1.5-mm linear incision in the peripheral capsule to maximally preserve epithelial cells and enhance regenerative outcomes. Methods Forty 4-week-old New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to two groups: the peripheral capsular linear incision group (Group A) and the group (Group B), with 20 rabbits in each group. Lens removal was performed via irrigation/aspiration (I/A). Postoperatively, regenerated lenses were evaluated for morphology, size, weight, transparency, and capsular healing, followed by histological analysis. Results Successful lens regeneration was observed in both groups. Group A demonstrated superior regenerative outcomes, characterized by intact lens morphology, higher transparency, and significantly greater lens weight and thickness compared with Group B (P < 0.05). Histological analysis showed that epithelial cells in Group A differentiated into well-organized lens fibers with a more orderly arrangement, shorter capsular healing time, smaller scars, and smoother capsular surfaces than those in Group B. Conclusions Compared with small curvilinear capsulorhexis, peripheral capsular linear incision offers clear advantages in promoting morphological and functional lens regeneration, as well as capsular healing, in rabbit eyes. These findings provide novel strategies for developing surgical strategies for lens regeneration in children with congenital cataracts.