The comparative efficacy and safety of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the treatment of anterior chamber inflammation after cataract surgery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

NSAID-induced corneal melt as the first presentation of Sjögren's syndrome

A non-diabetic woman in her 80s presented 1 week following uncomplicated left eye cataract surgery complaining of decreased vision, gritty sensation and photophobia in the same eye. Postoperative treatment included G. Acular (Ketorolac Tromethamine 0.5%, NSAID: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) and G. Tobradex (Tobramycin 0.3% and Dexamethasone 0.1%, antibiotic and steroid, respectively) each prescribed four times a day for 2 weeks. On examination, the patient had a corneal epithelial defect which progressed to a full-thickness perforation despite ceasing the NSAID drops. Cyanoacrylate glue application with a plastic drape patch failed to seal the perforation, and a full-thickness tectonic corneal transplant was performed. On investigation, the patient had positive anti-RO and anti-LA antibodies, suggesting a diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome. We advocate for careful preoperative assessment prior to cataract surgery, patient education, close follow-up and cautious medication use postoperatively including avoiding NSAID drops in patients with risk factors for postoperative dry eye disease.

Comparison of the efficacy and safety of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid drugs for prevention of cystoid macular edema after cataract surgery

INTRODUCTION

To compare the efficacy and safety of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), corticosteroid (CS), and a combination of both drugs to prevent cystoid macular edema (CME) after cataract surgery.

METHODS

We searched Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and Embase electronic databases to assess the relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to 28 April 2021. Network meta-analysis was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020182520).

RESULTS

Twenty-four RCTs were included in this review. The NSAID and combination of both drugs were significantly reduced the risk of developing CME than CS alone in non-diabetics and mix populations. In the ranking profiles, the combination therapy showed a significant advantage over the single drugs and was less likely to develop CME. Diclofenac was the most likely to reduce the odds of developing CME compared with bromfenac and nepafenac. Dexamethasone was the most likely to reduce the odds of developing CME compared with betamethasone and fluorometholone.

CONCLUSION

NSAID combination with CS has significantly reduced the risk of developing CME postoperatively than the single drug. Diclofenac was superior to bromfenac and nepafenac in preventing CME. Dexamethasone was superior to betamethasone and fluorometholone in preventing CME.

Topical 0.1% Nepafenac versus 0.09% Bromfenac Eye Drops for Inflammation after Laser Peripheral Iridotomy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

To assess the safety and efficacy of 0.1% nepafenac versus 0.09% bromfenac eye drops in controlling inflammation after neodymium yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI).

DESIGN

Single-masked, single-center, randomized controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred and sixty eyes of patients with primary angle-closure suspect (PACS) and primary angle closure (PAC) undergoing bilateral LPI.

METHODS

Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive 0.1% nepafenac thrice daily or 0.09% bromfenac eye drops twice daily for 2 weeks after neodymium YAG LPI. Assessment was performed by masked investigators at 2 weeks after LPI. A Glaucoma Symptom Scale (GSS) questionnaire was administered both at baseline and 2 weeks after LPI. Subjective comfort scores to the study medications were assessed on the basis of a Likert scale at 2 weeks after LPI. In patients with bilateral PACS or PAC, the right eye was analyzed, and in asymmetrical disease (i.e., when one eye had PACS and the other eye had PAC), the eye with PAC was analyzed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome (end point) was uncontrolled inflammation, defined as symptomatic inflammation within 1 week after LPI, the presence of anterior chamber cells at 2 weeks, or rebound inflammation after medication discontinuation. The secondary outcome was patient-reported comfort levels with study medications based on the GSS and Likert scale.

RESULTS

At 2 weeks after LPI, 7 patients (6 with PACS and 1 with PAC) in the nepafenac group and 2 patients with PACS in the bromfenac group achieved the primary end point, without a difference between the medication groups (P = 0.09). Post-LPI burning, smarting, and stinging was more common in the bromfenac group (P = 0.01), which also had a higher comfort score on the Likert scale (P = 0.004). The need for repeat LPI was comparable (10.0% in the nepafenac group vs. 15.4% in the bromfenac group; P = 0.22). A multivariate analysis revealed that a greater number of laser shots was associated with the need for repeat LPI (odds ratio, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.10; P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Topical 0.09% bromfenac is noninferior to 0.1% nepafenac in controlling inflammation after LPI in eyes with PACS and PAC. Nepafenac may be associated with higher patient-reported comfort.

Advances in ophthalmic drug delivery technology for postoperative management after cataract surgery

INTRODUCTION

Cataract surgery is becoming more common due to an aging world population. Intraocular lenses and surgical technique have developed remarkably recently, but the development of postoperative medication to prevent postsurgery complications has been relatively delayed. We still largely depend on eye drops for the management of post-cataract-surgery patients. Mental and physical problems that often occur in elderly cataract patients make it difficult for patients to apply eye drops by themselves. It is necessary to develop new effective drug delivery methods.

AREAS COVERED

This updated review article provides a brief review of why drug management is needed following cataract surgery and an overview of current developments in new drug delivery methods for ophthalmic treatment. In particular, various novel drug delivery methods that can be used for post-cataract-surgery management and their current development stages are extensively reviewed.

EXPERT OPINION

Rapidly developing technologies, such as intraocular and external ophthalmic implants, polymers, and nanotechnology, are being actively applied to develop novel drug delivery systems for safe and effective management after cataract surgery. Their goal is to achieve sufficient drug release for the desired duration with a single application. These will largely replace the inconvenience of eye drops for elderly patients in the future.

Comparison of Efficacy between Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Preventing Macular Edema after Cataract Surgery in Diabetic Patients

(1) Background: There is no consensus regarding the optimal strategy to prevent macular edema after cataract surgery in diabetic patients. The purpose of study is to compare the efficacy of topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs) and intravitreal injections of anti-VEGFs for the prevention of macular edema after cataract surgery in diabetic patients without pre-existing macular edema. (2) Methods: A literature search of the MEDLINE, PUBMED, and EMBASE databases was conducted in July 2021. Studies involving either topical NSAIDs or intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF arms that reported either the occurrence of macular edema or changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were included. Weighted mean differences and risk ratios were calculated along with 95% confidence intervals. (3) Results: Intravitreal injection of anti-VEGFs provided short-term structural protection for one month in patients receiving cataract surgery, but the protective effect ceased to exist after three months. The structural protection of topical NSAIDs, however, can last for at least three months. Meanwhile, neither anti-VEGFs nor NSAIDs provided significant visual improvement. (4) Conclusions: Our study suggested that topical NSAIDs eye drops is an effective prevention strategy for macular edema after cataract surgery in diabetic patients.

Nepafenac in cataract surgery

The role of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in routine cataract surgery has been established since decades. Topical NSAIDs have been shown to reduce postoperative ocular inflammation and pain, preserve intraoperative mydriasis, and reduce the risk of postoperative cystoid macular oedema, whilst carrying a very low side-effect profile. Nepafenac is one of the currently available topical NSAIDs. The studies have shown that is has a high ocular penetration, allowing for potentially better results than other NSAIDs. This review gathers the current literature on the role of nepafenac in cataract surgery aiming to help surgeons maximise the benefits of its use to achieve improved surgical outcomes.

Topical bromfenac reduces multiple inflammatory cytokines in the aqueous humour of pseudophakic patients

Intraocular surgery is associated with increased ocular inflammation. If maintained for a prolonged period after surgery, this inflammation can cause various complications, including subconjunctival fibrosis and bleb scarring. This clinical trial was a prospective, randomised, single-blind, interventional study comparing the efficacy and safety of 0.1% bromfenac sodium ophthalmic solution and 0.02% fluorometholone ophthalmic suspension in the inhibition of multiple inflammatory cytokines in the aqueous humour of 26 patients with pseudophakic eyes who had undergone phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. The patients were randomly assigned to one of the trial drugs, and aqueous humour samples were collected before and after drug administration. Platelet-derived growth factor-AA levels significantly decreased in both drug groups, but they were significantly higher in the fluorometholone group than in the bromfenac group (P = 0.034). Bromfenac also significantly decreased vascular endothelial growth factor level (P = 0.0077), as well as monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 level (P = 0.013), which was elevated for a prolonged period after phacoemulsification. These data suggest that bromfenac is useful to alleviate prolonged microenvironmental alterations in the aqueous humour of pseudophakic eyes.

Perioperative Glucocorticoids are Associated with Improved Recurrence-Free Survival After Pancreatic Cancer Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study with Propensity Score-Matching

Purpose

Perioperative anesthetic management may affect long-term outcome after cancer surgery. This study investigated the effect of perioperative glucocorticoids on long-term survival in patients after radical resection for pancreatic cancer.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study with propensity score-matching, patients who underwent radical resection for pancreatic cancer from January 2005 to December 2016 were recruited. Baseline and perioperative data including use of glucocorticoids for prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting were collected. Patients were followed up by qualified personnel for cancer recurrence and survival. The primary outcome was the recurrence-free survival. Outcomes were compared before and after propensity matching. The association between perioperative glucocorticoid use and recurrence-free survival was analyzed with multivariable regression models.

Results

A total of 215 patients were included in the study; of these, 112 received perioperative glucocorticoids and 103 did not. Patients were followed up for a median of 74.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 68.3–79.7). After propensity score-matching, 64 patients remained in each group. The recurrence-free survivals were significantly longer in patients with glucocorticoids than in those without (full cohort: median 12.0 months [95% CI 6.0–28.0] vs 6.9 months [4.2–17.0], P<0.001; matched cohort: median 12.0 months [95% CI 5.8–26.3] vs 8.3 months [4.3–18.2], P=0.015). After correction for confounding factors, perioperative glucocorticoids were significantly associated with prolonged recurrence-free survivals (full cohort: HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.48–0.92, P=0.015; matched cohort: HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.35–0.84, P=0.007).

Conclusion

Perioperative use of low-dose glucocorticoids is associated with improved recurrence-free survival in patients following radical surgery for pancreatic cancer.

Effect of nepafenac 0.1% on retinal thickness after cataract surgery in patients without risk factors for cystoid macular edema

AIM

To evaluate the effect of topical preoperative nepafenac 0.1% treatment on postoperative macular edema using optical coherence tomography (OCT) after uncomplicated cataract surgery.

METHODS

Ninety eyes of 90 patients without any risk factors were included in the study. The patients were assigned to three groups: group 1, treated with topical prednisolone acetate 1%; group 2, treated with topical nepafenac 0.1% in addition to prednisolone acetate (1%); and group 3, those who started receiving nepafenac 0.1% treatment 3d prior to surgery and continued the treatment postoperatively in addition to prednisolone acetate (1%). Central retinal thickness (CRT) and macular volume values were recorded using OCT at weeks 3 and 6.

RESULTS

The increases in macular volume in the central 1 mm area after 3 and 6wk were significantly lower in patients who used prophylactic topical nepafenac preoperatively (group 3) compared with those in group 1 (P=0.028 and 0.008, respectively). No significant differences in the increase in macular volume and CRT were noted between groups 2 and 3 (P>0.05). In group 1, the increases in macular volume in the central 3 mm area at weeks 3 and 6 were significantly higher than that in group 2 and 3 (3^rd week, P=0.004; 6^th week, P=0.005).

CONCLUSION

Nepafenac 0.1% treatment in addition to topical steroids after uncomplicated cataract surgery reduce the increase in macular volume in the early postoperative period.

The influence of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on the intraocular pressure lowering effect of topical prostaglandin analogues-A systemic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to review previous articles and evaluate the influence of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients who were treated with prostaglandin analogues (PGs).

METHOD

The presenting study was designed as a meta-analysis of previous research. Databases include PubMed, Web of science, Cochrane library, and Embase were searched with keywords of "intraocular pressure, prostaglandin analogues, NSAIDs, latanoprost, travoprost, bimatoprost, tafluprost, unoprostone, latanoprostene bunod, ketorolac, diclofenac, nepafenac, bromfenac, flurbiprofen". Inclusion criteria were: 1. Study population were glaucoma patients; 2. Comparison between PGs monotherapy and PGs in combination with topical NSAIDs; 3. Changes of IOP as final outcomes. Studies with non-randomized design, treatments combining other anti-glaucomatous drugs, or unavailable absolute IOP were excluded from the analysis. Estimated difference in IOP were calculated using STATA 14.0.

RESULT

Seven studies were retrieved for this meta-analysis. Since there is a significant heterogeneity (I2 = 94%) in these studies, random-effect model was used to calculate pooled standardized mean differences (SMD). Our results showed a significantly favorable IOP lowering effect in glaucoma patients treated with combination of topical NSAIDs and PGEs (SMD: 1.3 and -0.03, 95% CI: 0.29 to 2.38 and -0.32 to 0.26, Z = 2.50 and 0.23, p = 0.013 and 0.820, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Results of our meta-analysis suggested that topical NSAIDs may enhance the IOP lowering effect of topical PGs in glaucoma patients.

Corticosteroids in ophthalmology: drug delivery innovations, pharmacology, clinical applications, and future perspectives

Corticosteroids remain the mainstay of the treatment for various ocular conditions affecting the ocular surface, anterior and posterior segments of the eye due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oedematous, and anti-neovascularization properties. Prednisolone, prednisolone acetate, dexamethasone, triamcinolone acetonide, fluocinolone acetonide, and loteprednol etabonate are amongst the most widely used ophthalmic corticosteroids. Corticosteroids differ in their activity and potency in the eye due to their inherent pharmacological and pharmaceutical differences. Different routes and regimens are available for ocular administration of corticosteroids. Conventional topical application to the eye is the route of choice when targeting diseases affecting the ocular surface and anterior segment, while periocular, intravitreal, and suprachoroidal injections can be potentially effective for posterior segment diseases. Corticosteroid-induced intraocular pressure elevation and cataract formation remain the most significant local risks following topical as well as systemic corticosteroid administration. Invasive drug administration via intracameral, subconjunctival, and intravitreal injection can enhance ocular bioavailability and minimize dose and dosing frequency of administration, yet may exacerbate ocular side effects of corticosteroids. This review provides a critical appraisal of the ophthalmic uses of corticosteroid, routes of administration, drug delivery fundamentals and novel ocular implantable steroid delivery systems, factors influencing side effects, and future perspectives for ocular corticosteroid therapy.

Persistence of Inflammation After Uncomplicated Cataract Surgery: A 6-Month Laser Flare Photometry Analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate, by laser photometry, the persistency of anterior chamber flare after uneventful phacoemulsification in asymptomatic patients with no signs of inflammation on slit lamp examination.

METHOD

Seventy-five patients previously enrolled in a randomized clinical trial that evaluated inflammation after uneventful phacoemulsification in eyes treated with dexamethasone 0.1% ophthalmic suspension (group 1) or bromfenac 0.09% ophthalmic solution (group 2) for 2 weeks. Anterior chamber inflammation was investigated by laser flare photometry. At 30 days after surgery, laser flare showed persistently elevated values. For this reason, patients were further analyzed at 3 and 6 months. Additionally, optical coherence tomography was used to measure the central macular thickness (CMT) and to assess for postoperative pseudophakic macular edema.

RESULTS

When compared to preoperative values, laser flare photometry demonstrated persistent ocular inflammation at postoperative days 90 and 180 in group 1, but not in group 2. Laser flare values showed a significant reduction in group 2 compared to group 1 throughout all the follow-up (p < 0.001). The increase in mean CMT at days 90 and 180 with respect to baseline was statistically significant in group 1 but not in group 2, in which it decreased to levels similar to preoperative value. Group 1 showed a higher increase in mean CMT compared to group 2 throughout all the follow-up (p < 0.001). The proportion of patients that developed pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (CME) was 14% (n = 5) and 0% (n = 0) in group 1 and group 2, respectively (p = 0.02). The bivariate analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between laser flare and CMT values in group 1 but not in group 2.

CONCLUSION

Anterior chamber inflammation persists for more than 30 days in a significant proportion of patients after uncomplicated cataract surgery and may be responsible for late onset of cystoid macular edema cases.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT03317847.

Comparison of the efficacy of nepafenac 0.1% in quiescent Behçet's uveitis and non-uveitic healthy patients after phacoemulsification surgery

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of nepafenac on anterior chamber flare and intraocular pressure(IOP) in healthy (group 1) and uveitic eyes (group 2) undergoing cataract surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective, consecutive case series study.

RESULTS

Among 54 the patients, 14 had a history of uveitis. The groups were similar in age and gender. There were significant changes in flare values in both groups. When the temporal changes of flare values were compared, there was no difference between the two groups. There were no significant changes in IOP values in both group. When the temporal changes of IOP values were compared, there was no difference between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Nepafenac 0.1% has been shown to be effective in suppressing inflammation after cataract surgery in uveitic eyes as well as in healthy eyes. In addition, it has been observed that it does not increase intraocular pressure in both healthy and uveitic eyes and it is safe to use with this regard.

Management of Postoperative Inflammation and Dry Eye After Cataract Surgery

Surgical intervention is the most effective treatment for decreased vision resulting from cataracts. Although the current procedures for cataract surgery are safe and effective, it is well known that several complications can develop after surgery. Postoperative cystoid macular edema (CME) is a well-known complication, and prophylactic medications such as steroids and/or nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are routinely used for its prevention. Ocular surface abnormalities, such as dry eye, have also been reported to develop after cataract surgery. However, the causative mechanisms for postoperative dry eye have not been definitively determined. At present, there are no prophylactic medications that are commonly used to prevent the development of postoperative dry eye. Although nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs are very effective in reducing the incidence and degree of postoperative CME, it is known that they can cause adverse side effects, including ocular surface abnormalities. Thus, perioperative medications must be carefully selected to improve surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Here, we summarize the results of recent studies on postoperative dry eye and CME that can develop after cataract surgery. We suggest appropriate combinations of medications that can be used to minimize these postsurgical complications.

VITREOUS PROSTAGLANDIN E2 CHANGES AFTER TOPICAL ADMINISTRATION OF DICLOFENAC 0.1%, INDOMETHACIN 0.5%, NEPAFENAC 0.3%, AND BROMFENAC 0.09

PURPOSE

To evaluate the vitreous concentration of different nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after topical administration and the related prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy.

METHODS

A prospective, randomized, investigator-masked study was performed. One hundred four patients scheduled for a pars plana vitrectomy for an epiretinal membrane or a macular hole were randomized to receive topical diclofenac 0.1%, indomethacin 0.5%, nepafenac 0.3%, bromfenac 0.09%, or placebo 3 days before surgery. At the beginning of surgery, a sample of undiluted vitreous was collected in each patient to assess NSAIDs concentration and PGE2 levels.

RESULTS

The median vitreous concentrations were 203.35 (interquartile range 146.54-264.18) pg/mL for diclofenac, 243.45 (interquartile range 156.96-365.37) pg/mL for nepafenac, 438.21 pg/mL (interquartile range, 282.52-645.87) for its active metabolite amfenac, 350.14 (interquartile range, 290.88-481.95) pg/mL for indomethacin, and 274.59 (245.43-358.25) pg/mL for bromfenac. Vitreous PGE2 levels were significantly lower for all the NSAIDs groups compared with the control group (P < 0.001). A statistically significant higher vitreous PGE2 level was found in the diclofenac group compared with the other NSAIDs groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Topical NSAIDs achieve sufficient vitreous concentration to decrease vitreous PGE2 levels compared with the control group. The different efficacy in reducing PGE2 concentration may affect the management of posterior segment inflammation.

Anterior Chamber Inflammation After Cataract Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Bromfenac 0.09% to Dexamethasone 0.1

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of bromfenac 0.09% and dexamethasone 0.1% in the treatment of anterior chamber inflammation after uncomplicated cataract surgery.

METHODS

Seventy-six patients with senile cataracts and no other ocular comorbidities who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification were randomized 1:1 to receive dexamethasone ophthalmic suspension 0.1% or bromfenac ophthalmic solution 0.09% for 2 weeks. All patients were examined on the day before surgery and postoperatively at day 1, 3, 7, 9, 11, 14 and 30. Laser flare photometry was used to quantify anterior chamber inflammation and optical coherence tomography to measure macular thickness.

RESULTS

Bromfenac was as effective as dexamethasone in reducing inflammation in the anterior chamber of the eye. Laser flare increased the day after surgery and progressively decreased after starting the treatment with no statistically significant difference between dexamethasone and bromfenac at all time points. Visual acuity improved steadily after surgery in both groups. Mean macular thickness was similar in both the dexamethasone and bromfenac arms at 1 month.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term therapy with topical bromfenac alone is as effective as dexamethasone in low-risk cataract surgery patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov # NCT03317847; EudraCT # 2016-004358-14.

FUNDING

Santa Maria Nuova Hospital IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy.

Ophthalmic Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs as a Therapy for Corneal Dystrophies Caused by SLC4A11 Mutation

Purpose

SLC4A11 is a plasma membrane protein of corneal endothelial cells. Some mutations of the SLC4A11 gene result in SLC4A11 protein misfolding and failure to mature to the plasma membrane. This gives rise to some cases of Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD) and congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy (CHED). We screened ophthalmic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for their ability to correct SLC4A11 folding defects.

Methods

Five ophthalmic NSAIDs were tested for their therapeutic potential in some genetic corneal dystrophy patients. HEK293 cells expressing CHED and FECD-causing SLC4A11 mutants were grown on 96-well dishes in the absence or presence of NSAIDs. Ability of NSAIDs to correct mutant SLC4A11 cell-surface trafficking was assessed with a bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assay and by confocal microscopy. The ability of mutant SLC4A11-expressing cells to mediate water flux (SLC4A11 mediates water flux across the corneal endothelial cell basolateral membrane as part of the endothelial water pump) was measured upon treatment with ophthalmic NSAIDs.

Results

BRET-assays revealed significant rescue of SLC4A11 mutants to the cell surface by 4 of 5 NSAIDs tested. The NSAIDs, diclofenac and nepafenac, were effective in moving endoplasmic reticulum-retained missense mutant SLC4A11 to the cell surface, as measured by confocal immunofluorescence. Among intracellular-retained SLC4A11 mutants, 20 of 30 had significant restoration of cell surface abundance upon treatment with diclofenac. Diclofenac restored mutant SLC4A11 water flux activity to the level of wild-type SLC4A11 in some cases.

Conclusions

These results encourage testing diclofenac eye drops as a treatment for corneal dystrophy in patients whose disease is caused by some SLC4A11 missense mutations.

Inhibition of platelet function after ocular administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

INTRODUCTION

The use of topical NSAIDs is frequent in ophthalmology to reduce the local inflammatory reaction resulting from surgical procedures. Ocular use of some drugs was previously found to lead to significant systemic absorption with possible systemic effects. NSAIDs may enhance the hemorrhagic risk of anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs. Aim of our study was to evaluate the systemic effects of two NSAIDs given by eyedrops on platelet COX-1 and on ex vivo and in vivo platelet activation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

20 patients planned to undergo cataract surgery were randomized to the use of an ophthalmic solution containing Diclofenac or Indomethacin. Blood was taken at enrollment (baseline) and after 3 days of therapy (1 drop, 4 times a day). Arachidonic Acid (AA)-induced light transmission aggregometry (LTA), PFA-100® C-EPI, circulating platelet P-Selectin expression by flow cytometry and serum and AA-induced TxB₂ production were evaluated before and after eyedrop therapy.

RESULTS

AA (0.1-0.2 mM)-induced LTA was significantly reduced after ocular indomethacin but not after diclofenac. PFA-100® C-EPI closure time was also significantly prolonged in the indomethacin group but not in the diclofenac group. Circulating platelet P-selectin expression was significantly reduced after treatment with indomethacin compared with diclofenac. Finally, treatment with eyedrop indomethacin, but not with diclofenac, strikingly suppressed AA-induced TxB₂ generation, while treatment with diclofenac did not modify it.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show that indomethacin administered by ophthalmic eye drops has a relevant systemic antiplatelet effect. This should be taken into account in patients under concurrent therapy with antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents.

Intracameral dexamethasone injection in the treatment of cataract surgery induced inflammation: design, development, and place in therapy

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, with nearly 20 million cases annually. Appropriate prophylaxis after cataract surgery can contribute to a safe and quick visual recovery with high patient satisfaction. Despite being the current standard of care, the use of multiple postoperative eye drops can create a significant burden on these patients, contributing to documented and significant non-adherence to the postoperative regimen. Over the past 25 years, there have been a few studies analyzing the use of intracameral dexamethasone (DXM) in controlling inflammation following cataract surgery. This review explores various drug delivery approaches for managing intraocular inflammation after cataract surgery, documenting the strengths and weaknesses of these options and examining the role of intracameral DXM (among these other strategies) in controlling postoperative intraocular inflammation. Intracameral DXM has a particular advantage over topical steroids in possibly decreasing postoperative inflammatory symptoms and objective anterior cell and flare scores. Compared to topical steroids, there may be a slightly less theoretical risk of significant intraocular pressure spikes and systemic absorption. In addition, surveys indicate patients prefer an intraoperative intracameral injection over a self-administered postoperative eye drop regimen. However, there are several adverse effects associated with intracameral DXM delivery that are not seen with the noninvasive topical approach. Although it is unlikely that intracameral DXM will replace topical medications as the standard management for postoperative inflammation, it is seemingly another safe and effective strategy for controlling postoperative inflammation after routine cataract surgery.

Anti-inflammatory medication following cataract surgery: a randomized trial between preservative-free dexamethasone, diclofenac and their combination

PURPOSE

To examine the anti-inflammatory efficacy and tolerance between preservative-free dexamethasone (DEX) and diclofenac (DICL) eye drops, and their combination following cataract surgery.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, prospective single-centre study with 189 eyes of 180 patients undergoing routine cataract surgery. Laser flare meter measurement and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography imaging were conducted before surgery and at the 28-day postoperative visit. Clinical characteristics, surgical parameters and assessment of postoperative symptoms were recorded.

RESULTS

Preoperative flare was 9.0 ± 0.6 pu/ms and central retinal thickness (CRT) 269.6 ± 1.9 μm (mean ± SEM). On day 28, flare was 22.1 ± 2.9 pu/ms for DEX, 17.4 ± 2.5 pu/ms for DICL and 13.0 ± 1.6 pu/ms (p < 0.05) for their combination. Central retinal thickness (CRT) increase was 31.5 ± 8.8 μm for DEX, 6.0 ± 0.8 μm (p = 0.001) for DICL, and 3.5 ± 0.5 μm (p < 0.001) for their combination. The incidence of ocular symptoms related to the eye drops was 11% for DEX, 37% for DICL and 34% for their combination (p < 0.001). Clinically significant pseudophakic cystoid macular oedema (PCME) was observed in seven eyes which were all treated with DEX (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Diclofenac (DICL), as well as the combination of DEX and DICL, were superior to DEX monotherapy in minimizing CRT change and the incidence of PCME. Combination medication showed no added value compared to DICL monotherapy in uneventful cataract surgery.

The Comparative Efficacy and Tolerability of Diclofenac 0.1% and Bromfenac 0.09% Ophthalmic Solutions after Cataract Surgery

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and tolerability of diclofenac and bromfenac ophthalmic solutions as adjunctive therapy after cataract surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective randomized controlled study included 130 patients who underwent cataract surgery. One hundred patients were randomized to receive postoperatively diclofenac 0.1% (four times daily for 28 days, Group 1) or bromfenac 0.09% (twice daily for 14 days, Group 2) ophthalmic solutions in addition to steroid-antibiotic combination. Thirty patients instilled only steroid-antibiotic combination (Control Group 3). Laser flare-cell photometry and optical coherence tomography scans with central foveal thickness (CFT) measurement were performed before (V0) and 7 (V1), 14 (V2) and 28 days (V3) after surgery. Treatment tolerability was scored using the Ocular Comfort Grading Assessment.

RESULTS

Laser flare-cell photometry values were significantly higher at V1, V2 and V3 compared to V0 in all the groups (respectively 13.3 ± 1.0, 12.7 ± 0.9 and 9.6 ± 0.9 vs 8.4 ± 0.6 ph/ms for Group 1; 13.4 ± 1.0, 12.7 ± 0.9 and 12.7 ± 1.0 vs 8.1 ± 0.6 for Group 2; 15.9 ± 0.8, 15.4 ± 0.7 and 14.5 ± 0.7 vs 7.5 ± 0.5 for Group 3) (p < 0.001); flare increase was significantly lower in Group 1 compared to Groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.001). CFT values were higher after surgery in all the three groups; the increase was significantly lower in Group 1 compared to Groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.0002). The percentage of symptoms-free patients after study treatment was significantly higher in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (respectively 74% vs 14% of the total; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The addition of diclofenac or bromfenac ophthalmic solutions contributed to further reduce both inflammation and cystoid macular edema after cataract surgery compared to steroid-antibiotic combination alone. Diclofenac appeared to be more effective in reducing postoperative intraocular inflammation with a more intense and prolonged regimen, while bromfenac more tolerated with lower daily dose and treatment duration.

Comparative study of the efficacy and safety of bromfenac, nepafenac and diclofenac sodium for the prevention of cystoid macular edema after phacoemulsification

AIM

To compare the efficacy, tolerability and safety of bromfenac 0.09%, nepafenac 0.1% or diclofenac 0.1% for the prophylaxis of the cystoid macular edema (CME) after phacoemulsification.

METHODS

Group sequential observational comparative study. After phacoemulsification, patients received two months for topical treatment of either diclofenac sodium, bromfenac or nepafenac. All patients received concomitant topical tobramycin 0.3% and topical prednisolone 1%. We measured CME using optical coherence tomography (OCT) central foveal thickness, macular thickness and total macular volume.

RESULTS

We enrolled 243 patients from January to June 2015, and 35% received diclofenac, 32.9% bromfenac and 32.1% nepafenac. When we compared pre-operative to three weeks to two months, bromfenac was more effective in reducing foveal volume (21.3 and 35.4 mm³, respectively), compared with the diclofenac (1.3 and 11.5 mm³, respectively), and the nepafenac group, became more edematous 6.4 and 5.3, respectively. Totally 133 patients completed the post-surgical satisfaction questionnaire. Patients complained of eye stickiness in 13.8% whom we gave nepafenac, versus 10.3% whom we gave diclofenac sodium, and in 0 whom we gave bromfenac.

CONCLUSION

Bromfenac is the best tolerated and is more effective than diclofenac and nepafenac in reducing CME after phacoemulsification.

Inner layer-embedded contact lenses for pH-triggered controlled ocular drug delivery

Contact lenses (CLs) are ideally suited for controlled ocular drug delivery, but are limited by short release duration, poor storage stability and low drug loading. In this study, we present a novel inner layer-embedded contact lens capable of pH-triggered extended ocular drug delivery with good storage stability. Blend film of ethyl cellulose and Eudragit S100 was used as the inner layer, while pHEMA hydrogel was used as outer layer to fabricate inner layer-embedded contact lens. Using diclofenac sodium(DS) as a drug model, influence of polymer ratio in the blend film, EC viscosity, drug/polymer ratio, inner layer thickness and outlayer thickness of pHEMA hydrogel on drug release behavior was studied and optimized for daily use. The pH-triggered drug eluting pattern enables the inner layer-embedded contact lens being stored in phosphate buffer solution pH 6.8 with ignorable drug loss and negligible changes in drug release pattern. In vivo pharmacokinetic study in rabbits showed sustained drug release for over 24 h in tear fluid, indicating significant improvement in drug corneal residence time. A level A IVIVC was established between in vitro drug release and in vivo drug concentration in tear fluid. In conclusion, this inner layer embedded contact lens design could be used as a platform for extended ocular drug delivery with translational potential for both anterior and posterior ocular diseases therapy.

Distinct macular thickness changes after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery of age-related cataract and myopia with cataract

Cataract surgery can cause macular thickness change. We used optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the macular thickness of different regions after femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery of age-related cataracts (ARC) and myopia cases with cataract (myopia group). Fifty eyes of 50 patients in ARC group and fifty eyes of 50 patients in myopia with cataract group were included. All study underwent femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery and macular thickness of was measured at pre-operation and 1 week, 1 month after surgery. There are significant differences of foveal thickness (P = 0.02), foveal volume (P = 0.02) and average retinal thickness (P = 0.02) between two groups before operation. In the myopia group, statistically significant differences were not found in postoperative macular thickness as compared with ARC group. There are differences in macular thickness between pre-operation and 1 month after operation when compared with nasal outer macular ring thickness (P = 0.022), foveal volume (P = 0.005) and average retinal thickness (P = 0.012) in ARC group. The study suggest that femtosecond laser–assisted cataract extraction is safe in myopia group that did not cause significant increase of macular thickness. However, an increased post-operative local macular thickness was recoded while comparing macular thickness with the baseline in ARC group.

The Effect of Perioperative Topical Ketorolac 0.5% on Macular Thickness after Uneventful Phacoemulsification

Background

To evaluate the effects of topical 0.5% ketorolac treatment combined with topical steroids on macular thickness in cases who had uneventful phacoemulsification surgery.

Methods

58 eyes of 58 consecutive cases were included. The mean foveal thickness (MFT), parafoveal thickness (ParaFT), and perifoveal thickness (PeriFT) measurements were performed with optical coherence tomography (RTVue-100, Optovue, Fremont, CA, USA) preoperatively and at postoperative 1 week, 1 month, and 2 months. All cases received topical 0.1% dexamethasone postoperatively. Randomly selected cases additionally received topical 0.5% ketorolac, which started 2 days prior to surgery. Cases who received both topical steroids and ketorolac formed group 1 and subjects who received only topical steroids formed group 2.

Results

The increase in mean MFT at the 1st week, 1st month, and 2nd months after surgery in group 1 was significantly lower than group 2 (P = 0.008, P ≤ 0.001, and P ≤ 0.001, resp.). In group 1, the increase in mean ParaFT and PeriFT was significantly lower than group 2 at the 1st and 2nd months of the surgery (P < 0.05 for all variables).

Conclusions

Topical ketorolac combined with steroids is highly efficacious in order to prevent increment in thickness on each part of the macula even after an uneventful phacoemulsification surgery comparing to steroid monotheraphy.

Conjunctival Goblet Cell Density Following Cataract Surgery With Diclofenac Versus Diclofenac and Rebamipide: A Randomized Trial

PURPOSE

To determine the effects of topical diclofenac or betamethasone with concomitant application of topical rebamipide on the conjunctival goblet cell density in eyes after cataract surgery.

DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Eighty patients who were scheduled for cataract surgery.

METHODS

Patients were randomized into 4 groups according to the postoperative topical drugs to be given; Group A, diclofenac alone; Group B, diclofenac and rebamipide; Group C, betamethasone alone; and Group D, betamethasone and rebamipide. Impression cytology was performed before and at 1 month after the surgery, and the mean density of goblet cells was determined.

RESULTS

The mean (± SD) density of goblet cells before the surgery in Group A was 257.0 ± 188.7 cells/mm², and it decreased significantly to 86.5 ± 76.7 cells/mm² at 1 month after the surgery (P = .002). In Group B, the goblet cell density was not statistically different between before (238.5 ± 116.6 cells/mm²) and at 1 month after the surgery (211.3 ± 184.4 cells/mm², P = .55). In Groups C and D, the mean density of goblet cells was decreased at 1 month after the surgery, but the decreases were not significant (P = .11 and P = .52, respectively).

CONCLUSION

After cataract surgery with postoperative topical diclofenac, the conjunctival goblet cell density was significantly reduced, and this reduction was blocked by the concomitant use of topical rebamipide. These results suggest that the concomitant use of topical rebamipide with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is beneficial, especially in cases with postoperative dry eyes.

[Evidence and Practice of Enhanced Lung Recovery after Surgery in Patients Undergoing Lung Surgery]

加速康复外科（enhanced recovery after surgery, ERAS）方案临床应用的多样性，取决于病种和团队而不同。肺术后都有哪些证据有利于加速肺康复（enhanced lung recovery after surgery, ELRAS）的临床实践呢？本文主要从围手术期可采用的措施及方法进行回顾性分析：术前强调教育及高危因素的评估及预防，术中微创手术及流程优化，术后关注以疼痛为主的症状管理。