Early Macular Changes after Phacoemulsification in Eyes with High Myopia

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• High myopia presents unique challenges for cataract surgery.
• Pre-existing macular abnormalities are common in high myopia.
• Understanding surgical impact on the macula is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess macular changes following cataract surgery in patients with high myopia.
• To evaluate the incidence of cystoid macular edema (CME) post-surgery.
• To determine the effect of surgery on pre-existing macular conditions.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort study of high myopia patients (axial length ≥26 mm).
• Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation performed.
• Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) used for macular assessment at baseline, 2, and 6 months.

Main Results:

• No significant changes in pre-existing macular abnormalities (epiretinal membrane, lamellar hole, myopic foveoschisis, vitreomacular traction) were observed.
• Cystoid macular edema (CME) developed in 8.8% of eyes at 2 months post-surgery.
• A low incidence of new CME (5.6%) was noted at 6 months.

Conclusions:

• Uncomplicated cataract surgery does not significantly affect pre-existing macular abnormalities in high myopia.
• The incidence of CME after uncomplicated cataract surgery in high myopia is approximately 9% at 2 months.
• Close monitoring for CME is recommended after cataract surgery in high myopia patients.