Risk factors for an inflammatory response after extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber IOL

Risk factors for developing an inflammatory response after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of posterior chamber IOL have been studied. Out of 1154 cases included in the study, an inflammatory response was encountered in 63 eyes (5.5%). The inflammatory response was defined as increased cellular flare and/or as a fibrinous reaction during a follow-up of 4 months. Thirteen of the 63 eyes (20.6%) developed cellular precipitates, and posterior synechias were seen in 34 of these eyes (54.0%). Among 10 pre- and 10 peroperative putative risk factors analyzed in a logistic regression model, 5 variables had a statistically significant influence on the probability of developing postoperative inflammation; 1) Uveitis in history (p = 0.0001), 2) Pseudo-exfoliation syndrome (p = 0.0224), 3) Inability to obtain adequate mydriasis at the start of surgery (p < 0.0001), 4) Problems with IOL implantation (p = 0.0111) and 5) Pigment effusion during surgery (p = 0.0258).