Modified phacoemulsification plus goniosynechialysis compared with conventional surgery for cataract and glaucoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Glaucoma Treatment

Background:

• Glaucoma impacts millions globally, often necessitating surgical intervention for co-existing cataracts.
• Traditional phacoemulsification in complicated cataracts risks corneal endothelial damage due to high ultrasonic energy.
• Modified phacoemulsification offers a potentially safer alternative for managing complex cataract and glaucoma cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of modified phacoemulsification with goniosynechialysis versus conventional surgery for cataract and glaucoma.
• To evaluate the impact on visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and postoperative complications.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 125 patients in the control group (conventional surgery) and 179 in the research group (modified phacoemulsification).
• Both groups underwent goniosynechialysis combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation.
• Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and complication rates were assessed preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively.

Main Results:

• The research group (modified phacoemulsification) showed significantly higher rates of improved visual acuity (0.2-0.4 and >0.4).
• Lower incidences of corneal edema and anterior chamber inflammation were observed in the research group compared to the control group.
• No significant differences were found in intraocular pressure, anterior chamber depth, angle-opening distance, or peripheral iridocorneal adhesions between the groups.

Conclusions:

• Modified phacoemulsification combined with goniosynechialysis offers superior visual acuity improvement for cataract and glaucoma patients.
• This technique effectively reduces postoperative corneal edema and anterior chamber inflammation, enhancing safety.
• The modified approach presents a promising advancement in surgical management for complex cataract and glaucoma.