[Retrobulbar anaesthesia in cataract surgery revisited]

Retrobulbar anaesthesia in cataract surgery is advocated so as to decrease anaesthetic risk. The technique of anaesthesia was studied in 100 patients. The study was based on two principles: firstly, it was the anaesthetist who performed the retrobulbar anaesthesia; secondly, retrobulbar anaesthesia was a matter of deliberate choice and not done upon contra-indication of general anaesthesia. After describing the means used in obtaining anaesthesia, akinesia and efficient hypotonia of the eye, the results of the series are reported. The advantages of retrobulbar anaesthesia are discussed. The absence of noxious side-effects is stressed. This anaesthetic technique should be used more often regardless of the patient's condition.