Cataract surgery in Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis

To assess the particularities of extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation in patients with Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis.

Retrospective analysis of 24 extracapsular cataract operations performed from September 1991 to June 1994. Our technique-a slight modification of Blumenthal's technique-included a triplanar watertight small scleral incision, an envelope capsulotomy, nucleus hydrodissection and hydroexpression, anterior chamber maintainer use, thorough residual cortex removal through a side-port corneal incision and "in the bag" posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation.

Mydriasis was slightly larger than 5 mm in 79.16% of the total group. Posterior capsule rupture with vitreous loss occurred in one and without in two patients. A transient rise in intraocular pressure was seen in seven patients and a mild anterior chamber reaction in almost all patients. No bleeding occurred during anterior chamber opening, or postoperative I.O.L. decentration or glaucoma. Best corrected postoperative visual acuity ranged from 5-10/10 in 21 patients (87.50%).

Extracapsular cataract extraction in patients with Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis does not currently present any difficulties compared with normal senile cataract. No major complications occurred and the final visual acuity was satisfactory.