Post-cataract astigmatism: its control and correction

The factors responsible for postoperative astigmatism--wound compression and wound gape--are discussed and illustrated for a number of suture incision combinations. Variability is pronounced. Mid-limbal incisions sutured with 8-0 virgin silk had a range of 8D at four days, 8.5D at four weeks and 9D at three months. Nylon 9-0 double continuous, tied normally, had 8D at four days, 7D at four weeks and 7.5D at three months. The same suture tied tightly gave a range of 5D at four days, 7.5D at four weeks and 6D at three months. Methods of control and correction are discussed and illustrated with case histories.