[Premature elevated intraocular pressure after cataract surgery].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Ophthalmic Surgery

Context:

• Cataract extraction is a common surgical procedure.
• Postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation is a potential complication.
• Understanding the frequency and risk factors for early postoperative IOP elevation is crucial for patient management.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the incidence of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in the early postoperative period (1-3 days) following standard or phacoemulsification extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE).
• To compare the frequency of elevated IOP between patients receiving anterior chamber (AC) IOLs and posterior chamber (PC) IOLs.
• To identify factors associated with early postoperative IOP elevation.

Summary:

• A study of 356 patients undergoing cataract surgery found that 6% experienced early elevated IOP.
• Patients receiving anterior chamber IOLs had a significantly higher incidence (25%) of elevated IOP compared to those with posterior chamber IOLs (5.5%).
• Viscoelastic substances accounted for 51% of elevated IOP cases. Most elevations were transient, resolving spontaneously or with medical treatment. Risk factors included glaucoma, cataracts with systemic diseases, and complicated or traumatic cataracts.

Impact:

• This research highlights the importance of monitoring IOP post-cataract surgery, particularly in patients with specific risk factors or those receiving AC IOLs.
• Findings can inform surgical technique modifications and postoperative management strategies to mitigate IOP spikes.
• Early detection and management of elevated IOP can prevent potential complications and improve visual outcomes.