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Phacoemulsification with aspirated or retained Viscoat
L E Probst1, O J Hakim, B D Nichols
1Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Retaining Viscoat after cataract surgery showed similar endothelial cell loss but less pleomorphism compared to aspiration. Surgeons should monitor for potential intraocular pressure increases post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation is a common cataract surgery.
- Viscoelastic devices like Viscoat are used to maintain anterior chamber space during surgery.
- The optimal management of viscoelastic material post-surgery is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of aspirating versus retaining Viscoat after cataract surgery.
- To evaluate endothelial cell counts, morphology, and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP).
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 55 patients (60 eyes) undergoing uncomplicated phacoemulsification.
- Eyes were randomized to either aspirate or retain Viscoat.
- Endothelial cell analysis, morphology assessment, and IOP measurements were performed 24 hours postoperatively.
Main Results:
- Endothelial cell loss was comparable between retained (8.7%) and aspirated (8.8%) Viscoat groups.
- Significantly less postoperative pleomorphism was observed in the retained Viscoat group.
- A trend towards higher postoperative IOP was noted in the retained Viscoat group, possibly due to trabecular meshwork blockage.
Conclusions:
- Retaining Viscoat does not significantly increase endothelial cell loss and may reduce pleomorphism after cataract surgery.
- Surgeons should be aware of a potential, though not statistically significant, increase in postoperative IOP when Viscoat is retained.
- The findings suggest Viscoat can be retained if surgeons are prepared to manage potential IOP elevation.