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Alteration of trabecular aqueous flow after cataract extraction
1Howe Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02114.
Ophthalmic Surgery
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Cataract surgery using corneoscleral sutures can cause trabecular meshwork collapse, potentially leading to increased intraocular pressure. This finding highlights a risk factor for glaucoma after certain eye surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular anatomy
- Surgical complications
Background:
- Intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE) is a surgical procedure to remove the lens.
- Understanding the impact of ICCE on the eye's drainage system is crucial for preventing secondary complications.
Observation:
- Cationized ferritin was used to perfuse two human eyes post-ICCE.
- Electron microscopy examined the trabecular meshwork (TM) for ferritin distribution.
Findings:
- Segmental TM collapse was observed superiorly, near the cataract incision.
- Collapsed TM regions showed no ferritin labeling, indicating impermeability to aqueous humor.
- Other TM areas exhibited diffuse labeling, suggesting normal aqueous flowthrough.
Implications:
- Corneoscleral sutures used in ICCE may induce TM collapse and impermeability.
- Extensive TM collapse can lead to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).
- This suggests a potential mechanism for post-operative glaucoma following ICCE.