DR. AMIT PORWAL

DR. MEGHNA SHRISHRIMAL, DR.KAVITA PORWAL

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the incidence of intraoperative complications during phacoemulsification of intumescent cataract using lens decompression techniques & without it.

Methods: Patients with intumescent cataract scheduled for phaco were divided into 3 groups. In group 1 lens decompression was not done & capsulorhexis was done as in any other cataract. In group 2 preop anterior Nd YAG laser capsulotomy was performed. In Group 3, a 24G needle aspiration was done. Outcomes measured were the incidence of capsular radial tears & incidence of conversion to MSICS.

Results: In Group 1 (50eyes) there was capsular extension in 16% of patients. In group 2 & 3 (50 eyes each) there were no radial tears or Argentinian flag sign. All the Patients in group 2 & 3 underwent phaco.

Conclusion: Lens decompression technique is very helpful tool in the armamentarium of cataract surgeon as it reduces the risk of capsular radial tears & conversion to MSICS during phacoemulsification of intumescent cataracts.