Extracapsular cataract extraction with a sutureless incision for dense cataracts.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques
• Cataract Surgery

Background:

• Dense cataracts pose surgical challenges.
• Traditional cataract extraction methods may require sutures.
• Sutureless incisions offer potential benefits in cataract surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) using sutureless incisions.
• To assess visual outcomes and complications associated with this technique for dense cataracts.
• To determine the impact of sutureless ECCE on surgically induced astigmatism and corneal endothelium.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 45 patients (51 eyes) undergoing ECCE with sutureless incisions for dense cataracts.
• Incision types included 12 o'clock and oblique scleral incisions (6.0-8.5 mm).
• Outcomes measured: visual acuity, astigmatism, complications, corneal endothelial cell density, and morphology.

Main Results:

• Sutureless incisions achieved self-sealing in 88.2% of cases; 11.8% required additional sutures.
• Low rates of intraoperative complications: posterior capsule rupture (5.9%) and iris prolapse (3.9%).
• Surgically induced astigmatism was minimal, with no significant differences between incision types; mean endothelial cell loss was 8.2%.

Conclusions:

• Sutureless ECCE is a fast, safe, and cost-effective technique for dense cataracts.
• This method is a viable treatment option, particularly for cataracts with large, hard nuclei.
• The technique demonstrates favorable safety and efficacy profiles in managing challenging cataract cases.