Phacoemulsification after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty

To evaluate the results of phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation after deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK).

Retrospective, consecutive, noncomparative, single-surgeon series.

Sixteen eyes of 16 patients were included (mean age: 51 years). Five eyes had phacoemulsification because of cataract, and 11 eyes for myopic refractive lens exchange. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted. Mean spherical equivalent (SE) improved from -8.69 D (SD 3.74) to -0.97 D (SD 1.13). Mean preoperative defocus equivalent (DE) improved from 10.32 D (SD 4.04) to 2.57 D (SD 0.92). Mean preoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.48 logMAR (SD 0.60) to 0.13 D (SD 0.005). Mean postoperative uncorrected visual acuity was 0.675 logMAR (SD 0.252). Safety index was 2.33, efficacy index was 0.70, and endothelial cell loss was not significant.

Phacoemulsification can provide safe and predictable visual rehabilitation for cataract and refractive errors resulting after DALK.