Visual and Refractive Outcomes after Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery in Nanophthalmic Eyes
Tracy H T Lai1,2,3,4, Jeffrey Y T Tse1,2,3,4, Jacqueline W T Chan1,2,3,4
1Department of Ophthalmology, Tseung Kwan O Hospital, 2 Po Ning Lane, Tseung Kwan O, Hong Kong.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|October 16, 2024
Summary
This study on nanophthalmic eyes found that phacoemulsification surgery yielded good visual outcomes, though myopic shift occurred in some patients. Standard intraocular lens formulas performed similarly for these short eyes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Outcomes
- Refractive Surgery
Background:
- Nanophthalmos, characterized by short axial lengths (≤20.5 mm), presents unique challenges in cataract surgery.
- Understanding visual and refractive outcomes is crucial for managing these eyes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the visual and refractive results of phacoemulsification in nanophthalmic eyes.
- To compare the accuracy of various intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas in these eyes.
Main Methods:
- A prospective consecutive case series included 14 nanophthalmic eyes undergoing phacoemulsification.
- Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and refractive status were assessed at four months post-operation.
- Five different IOL formulas (Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Holladay 2, Haigis, Hill-RBF 2.0) were compared for refractive prediction.
Main Results:
- Phacoemulsification in nanophthalmic eyes resulted in good visual outcomes, with 64% showing improved vision.
- Postoperative refraction was within 0.5D of the target in 79% of eyes.
- Myopic shift (≥1D) occurred in 21% of eyes; no significant differences were found between the IOL formulas' accuracy.
Conclusions:
- Phacoemulsification is effective for nanophthalmic eyes, but myopic shift is a potential outcome.
- Current IOL power calculation formulas demonstrate comparable accuracy for these short eyes.
- Further research is needed to optimize IOL power calculations specifically for nanophthalmic eyes.


