[Result of operations for hyper-mature cataract complicated with phacolytic glaucoma]

The aim of this study was to describe the results of hypermature cataract surgery, complicated with phacolytic glaucoma.

Observations were done on 44 patients treated in the II Ophthalmic Clinic of Medical Academy in Lubling, during 1998-2000 years. The group consisted of 18 females and 26 males, with the age ranging from 50 to 84. In 40 patients extracapsular cataract extraction was performed, in 37 cases intraocular lens was implanted, in 7 cases no lens was implanted. Visual acuity and intraocular pressure were assessed before, and after the operation, possible complications were descripted.

Before the operation visual acuity were: no light perception in 2 cases, unnormal light perception in 20 cases, normal light perception in 22 cases. Intraocular pressure was 21 mmHg to 75 mmHg, mean 33 mmHg. After the operation visual acuity were 5/50 in 3 cases, 5/30 in 2, 5/20 in 6, 5/15 in 6, 5/10 in 11, 5/6 in 7, 5/5 in 4 cases. Only in 5 cases visual acuity below 5/50 were achieved. There were cases of ischaemic neuropathy, absolute glaucoma, and age related macular degeneration. In all the patients after the operation intraocular pressure lowered, mean value was 15.5 mm Hg, and pain disappeared.

Lens extraction and intraocular lens implantation may be a successful method to treat cataract complicated with phacolytic glaucoma. The procedure should be done as quickly as it is possible, after increase of intraocular pressure to obtain satisfactory results.