Amvisc in extracapsular cataract extraction

Amvisc, a purified fraction of sodium hyaluronate, was evaluated and compared with Healon in cataract extraction and primary intraocular lens implantation. Both visco-elastic solutions are valuable adjuncts to intraocular surgery. A number of patients had moderately elevated IOP after these solutions had been used in the anterior chamber. This moderate elevation was observed less frequently with Amvisc than with Healon, and may be attributed to the lower viscosity of Amvisc. Both visco-elastic solutions provide good endothelial protection as evidenced by the minimal corneal edema seen in both groups. Postoperative anterior chamber inflammation was minimal in all patients in this study.