Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome associated with tamsulosin

Prevalence and prediction of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) in patients with pseudoexfoliation (PXF) and analyze preoperative ocular predicting factors.

DESIGN

A retrospective case-control study METHODS: The study included 224 eyes with PXF and 287 control eyes without PXF. One eye per patient, who underwent cataract surgery at the Wolfson Medical Center between January 2020 to December 2021, was included. Medical records of the patients were reviewed. Data collected included demographic characteristics, medical history, preoperative comprehensive ophthalmic examination, biometry, surgical procedure details, and IFIS occurrence. The association of IFIS with preoperative ocular parameters was analyzed through both univariant and multivariant analyses.

RESULTS

Patients with PXF were older and had a higher prevalence of glaucoma (77.6 ± 6.4 years vs 74.2±7.6 years; p < 0.001, and 20.1 % vs 9.8 %, p < 0.001, respectively). Prevalence of α-blockers treatment was similar in both groups. IFIS rate among the PXF group was 12.5% (n = 28) compared to 7.3% (n = 21) in the control group (p < 0.05). When omitting patients exposed to α-blockers, the PXF group exhibited a significantly higher IFIS rate (9.9% vs 4.8%; p < 0.05). Pupil dilation diameter was significantly lower among PXF patients (5.8 ± 1.1 mm vs 6.9 ± 0.99 mm; p < 0.001). Biometric evaluation revealed significant differences in anterior segment depth (ACD) and lens thickness (LT). Multivariate analysis indicated that PXF and decreased mydriatic pupil size remained significant predictors of IFIS.

CONCLUSION

This study establishes an association between PXF and an increased risk of IFIS during cataract surgery, independent of α-blockers treatment.

Comparison of pupil expansion devices in small pupil phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To study the outcomes of phacoemulsification in small pupils (≤4 mm) using pupil expansion devices at a tertiary eye care center in South India.

METHODS

The study design is prospective, randomized, comparative, and interventional. Mechanical pupil dilatation with iris retractors (group I), B-HEX ring (group II), and Gupta ring (group III) was compared with respect to pupil size achieved (intraoperative), total surgical time, device addition time, complications, endothelial cell loss, and postoperative best corrected visual acuity.

RESULTS

Among 36 participants (12 in each group), the mean pupil size, total surgical time, and device addition time were maximum with iris retractors. Intraoperatively, sphincter tear was seen in two eyes in the iris retractors group and one eye in the Gupta ring group. In the B-HEX ring group, only two flanges of the ring could be engaged in two participants, one patient had iris bleeding (during stretching of the iris), and one patient had anterior lens capsular tear. Among all three groups, there was no statistically significant difference in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), endothelial cell count, and coefficient of variation obtained in the preoperative period, postoperative Day 7 and Day 30, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In our study, in more than 50% of cases, the cause of small pupil was idiopathic/senile. Among nonidiopathic causes, PXF was the most common association. Although iris retractors are cost-effective and give maximum intraoperative dilatation, there is a need of four additional side ports to be made, thus increasing the total surgical time and device addition time. On the other hand, B-HEX and Gupta ring provide comparable intraoperative dilation and device addition time and also have comparable postoperative outcomes in terms of postoperative pupil size and complications.

[Intraoperative Complications in Cataract Surgery]

Cataract surgery is frequently and successfully performed in the developed world. The indications for the operation have shifted on one hand towards healthier patients seeking freedom from glasses and on the other hand towards more complex cases. How should the patient be informed? What complications can occur intraoperatively, and what treatment options are available for these complications?This article offers a focus on conditions such as zonulopathy and pseudoexfoliation that can pose challenges to cataract surgery. It discusses the use of specialized tools such as capsular tension rings and capsular hooks and precise maneuvers to minimize stress on weakened zonules in order to ensure in-the-bag fixation of the IOL.Furthermore, the article addresses appropriate actions towards intraoperative complications such as anterior or posterior capsule ruptures and loss of nuclear fragments into the vitreous cavity.Exploring innovative advancements, this article presents the latest alternatives for intracapsular lens fixation, such as sutureless scleral fixation and emerging lens designs in cases where there is insufficient capsular support.Ultimately, the primary objective remains delivering optimal outcomes even for complex cases, and minimizing post-surgical issues. Numerous tools and techniques are available.

Effect of direct oral anticoagulants on bleeding during and after cataract surgery

PURPOSE

To assess the risk for intraoperative and postoperative ocular bleeding associated with direct oral anticoagulant treatment in patients undergoing phacoemulsification surgery.

METHODS

Consecutive patients had phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation while taking uninterrupted direct oral anticoagulants (dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban). Gender and age-matched patients without antithrombotic therapy were used as the control group. Patients were examined one week postoperatively. Intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhagic and non-hemorrhagic complications were assessed.

RESULTS

Forty patients (56 eyes) on direct oral anticoagulants and 120 patients (172 eyes) without anticoagulation, at a mean age of 77 years, had phacoemulsification. There was no significant difference between the groups in the rate of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. One eye (1.8%) in the treatment group and 3 eyes (1.7%) in the control group had hyphema (p = 0.72). No patient had thromboembolic event during or after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Cataract surgery was safely performed while continuing direct oral anticoagulation.

Prospective analysis of anatomic features predisposing patients to intraoperative floppy iris syndrome

PURPOSE

To aid preoperative risk assessment by identifying anatomic parameters corresponding with a higher risk of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery.

METHODS

Prospective cohort study of 55 patients with α1-adrenergic receptor antagonist (α1-ARA) treatment and 55 controls undergoing cataract surgery. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT), video pupilometer, and biometry measurements were performed preoperatively and analyzed regarding anatomic parameters that corresponded with a higher rate of IFIS. Those statistically significant parameters were evaluated with logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

Pupil diameter was significantly smaller in patients who developed IFIS compared to those who did not develop IFIS (AS-OCT 3.29 ± 0.85 vs. 3.63 ± 0.68, p = 0.03; Pupilometer 3.56 ± 0,87 vs. 3.95 ± 0.67, p = 0.02). Biometric evaluation revealed shallower anterior chambers in the IFIS group (ACD 3.12 ± 0.40 vs. 3.32 ± 0.42, p = 0.02). Cutoff values for 50% IFIS probability (p = 0.5) were PD = 3.18 mm for pupil diameter and ACD = 2.93 mm for anterior chamber depth. ROC curves of combined parameters were calculated for α1-ARA medication with pupil diameter and anterior chamber depth, which yielded an AUC of 0.75 for all IFIS grades.

CONCLUSION

The combination of biometric parameters with history of α1-ARA medication can improve assessment of risk stratification for IFIS incidence during cataract surgery.

Effectiveness of a Standardized Combination of Intracameral Mydriatics and Anaesthetic on Mydriasis during Cataract Surgery with Coexisting Diseases

PURPOSE

To examine the effectiveness of a standardized combination of intracameral mydriatics and anesthetic (SCIMA) on mydriasis in patients with coexisting diseases such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXF) during phacoemulsification.

METHODS

Patients with cataract were included in the study if they achieved pupil dilation diameter ≥ 6.0 mm after the administration of mydriatic eyedrops (ME) during the first visit (V1). During the second visit (V2), pupil size measurements were obtained for phacoemulsification surgery with SCIMA. Effective mydriasis was defined as a pupil diameter ≥ 6.0 mm just prior to capsulorhexis without the use of additional pupil dilating agents. The measurements after ME administration during V1 and after SCIMA use during V2 were compared.

RESULTS

103 patients (103 eyes) were divided into 3 groups: cataract and DM (n = 35), cataract and PXF (n = 32), and cataract without DM or PXF (n = 36). SCIMA administration allowed the achievement of effective mydriasis (≥6.0 mm) in all groups (n = 103; 100%). Mydriasis was significantly larger (p ≤ 0.001) after ME (7.3 mm) than after SCIMA (6.8 mm) administration.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with cataract and such comorbidities as DM or PXF are likely to achieve effective pharmacological mydriasis during cataract phacoemulsification after SCIMA application. Mydriasis after ME is slower and larger, while SCIMA is faster.

Iris color as a predictive factor for intraoperative floppy iris syndrome

PURPOSE

To assess the influence of iris color on the predisposition for intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery.

METHODS

Medical records of patients who underwent cataract surgery in two medical centers between July 2019 and February 2020 were reviewed. Patients younger than 50 years, with preexisting ocular conditions affecting pupillary size or anterior chamber depth (ACD), and combined procedures were excluded. The remaining patients were questioned via telephone regarding their iris color. The association of IFIS occurrence and severity with iris color was tested using univariant and multivariant analyses.

RESULTS

Overall, 155 eyes of 155 patients were included, 74 with documented IFIS and 81 without. The mean age was 74.03 ± 7.09 years, and 35.5% were female. The most common iris color among study eyes was brown (110/155, 70.97%), followed by blue (25/155, 16.13%) and green (20/155, 12.90%). Compared to brown-colored eyes, blue irises exhibited a 4.50-fold risk for IFIS (OR = 4.50, 95% CI: 1.73-11.70, p = 0.002), and green irises 7.00-fold risk (OR = 7.00, 95% CI: 2.19-22.39, p = 0.001). After adjusting for possible confounders, the results remained statistically significant (p < 0.01). Light-colored irises tended to exhibit a more severe IFIS compared to the brown iris group (p < 0.001). IFIS bilaterality was also affected by iris color (p < 0.001), with a 10.43-fold risk for fellow eye IFIS in the green iris group compared to eyes with brown irises (OR = 10.43, 95% CI: 3.35-32.54, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Light iris color was associated with a significantly increased risk of IFIS occurrence, severity, and bilaterality on univariate and multivariate analysis in this study.

Summary Paper on the 2023 European Association of Urology Guidelines on the Management of Non-neurogenic Male Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

CONTEXT

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common, often bothersome, and have multifactorial aetiology.

OBJECTIVE

To present a summary of the 2023 version of the European Association of Urology guidelines on the management of male LUTS.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A structured literature search from 1966 to 2021 selected the articles with the highest certainty evidence. The Delphi technique consensus approach was used to develop the recommendations.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

The assessment of men with LUTS should be practical. A careful medical history and physical examination are essential. Validated symptom scores, urine test, uroflowmetry, and postvoid urine residual, as well as frequency-volume charts for patients with nocturia or predominately storage symptoms should be used. Prostate-specific antigen should be ordered if a diagnosis of prostate cancer changes the treatment plan. Urodynamics should be performed for selected patients. Men with mild symptoms are candidates for watchful waiting. Behavioural modification should be offered to men with LUTS prior to, or concurrent with, treatment. The choice of medical treatment depends on the assessment findings, predominant type of symptoms, ability of the treatment to change the findings, and the expectations to be met in terms of the speed of onset, efficacy, side effects, and disease progression. Surgery is reserved for men with absolute indications, and for patients who fail or prefer not to receive medical therapy. Surgical management has been divided into five sections: resection, enucleation, vaporisation, and alternative ablative and nonablative techniques. The choice of surgical technique depends on patient's characteristics, expectations, and preferences; surgeon's expertise; and availability of modalities.

CONCLUSIONS

The guidelines provide an evidence-based approach for the management of male LUTS.

PATIENT SUMMARY

A clinical assessment should identify the cause(s) of symptoms and define the clinical profile and patient's expectations. The treatment should aim to ameliorate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.

Potential side effects of currently available pharmacotherapies in male lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia

INTRODUCTION

The drug classes of α1-adrenoceptor antagonists, 5α-reductase inhibitors, and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors are guideline-recommended treatments of lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia; muscarinic receptor antagonists and β3-adrenoceptor agonists are also recommended if storage symptoms are insufficiently addressed with one of the other three drug classes.

AREAS COVERED

We provide a narrative review (no formalized literature searches performed) of the tolerability of these drug classes with emphasis on the more recently introduced medications, on combination treatment, and on more lately emerging risks.

EXPERT OPINION/COMMENTARY

The tolerability profiles are distinct between drug classes but, with few exceptions, similar within a drug class. Within a drug, formulations with longer duration of action tend to have better tolerability. Efficacy gains using combination treatment at least partly come at a cost of lesser tolerability. Greater susceptibility to experience adverse events based on age, comorbidities, and comedications appears conceptually important but remains under-investigated in this therapeutic area.

Pharmacological management of intra-operative miosis during cataract surgery

Cataract surgery requires a well-dilated and stable pupil for a good outcome. Unexpected pupillary constriction during surgery increases the risk of complication. This problem is more pronounced in children. There are now pharmacological interventions that help tackle this unforeseen happening. Our review discusses the simple and quick options available to a cataract surgeon when faced with this dilemma. As cataract surgical techniques continue to improvise and get faster, an adequate pupil size is of paramount importance. Various topical and intra-cameral drugs are used in combination to achieve mydriasis. Despite good pre-operative dilation, the pupil can be quite unpredictable during surgery. Intra-operative miosis limits the field of surgery and increases the risk of complications. For example, if the pupil size decreases from 7 mm to 6 mm, this 1 mm change in pupil diameter will lead to a decrease of 10.2 mm2 in the area of surgical field. Making a good capsulorhexis with a small pupil can be a challenge, even for an experienced surgeon. Repeated touching of the iris increases the risk of fibrinous complications. Removal of cataract and the cortical matter becomes increasingly difficult. Intra-ocular lens implantation in the bag also requires adequate dilation. When dealing with challenging cases like lens subluxation, pseudo-exfoliation, and zonular dehiscence, a small pupil further increases the risk and adversely affects the surgical outcome. Hence, achieving and maintaining adequate mydriasis throughout surgery is essential. This review highlights the risk factors for small pupils during surgery and current management strategies.

A metabolomics study: Could plasma metabolites be a guide for the prevention of tamsulosin side effects?

BACKGROUND

The understanding of precision medicine, which aims for high efficacy and low toxicity in treatments, has gained more importance with omics technologies. In this study, it was aimed to reach new suggestions for low-toxicity treatment by clarifying the relationship between tamsulosin side effects and metabolome profiles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Plasma samples of control and tamsulosin-treated rats were analyzed by LC-Q-TOF/MS/MS. MS/MS data was processed in XCMS software for the identification of metabolite and metabolic pathway analysis. Data were classified with MATLAB 2019b for multivariate data analysis. 34m/z values were found to be significantly different between the drug and control groups (P≤0.01 and fold analysis≥1.5) and identified by comparing METLIN and HMDB databases.

RESULTS

According to multivariate data analysis, α-Linolenic Acid, Thiamine, Retinoic acid, 1.25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3-26.23-Lactone, L-Glutamine, L-Serine, Retinaldehyde, Sphingosine 1-phosphate, L-Lysine, 23S.25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3, Sphinganine, L-Cysteine, Uridine 5'-diphosphate, Calcidiol, L-Tryptophan, L-Alanine levels changed significantly compared to the control group. Differences in the metabolisms of Retinol, Sphingolipid, Alanine-Aspartate-Glutamate, Glutathione, Fatty Acid, Tryptophan, and biosynthesis of Aminoacyl-tRNA, and Unsaturated Fatty Acid have been successfully demonstrated by metabolic pathway analysis. According to our study, vitamin A and D supplements can be recommended to prevent side effects such as asthenia, rhinitis, nasal congestion, dizziness and IFIS in the treatment of tamsulosin. Alteration of aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis and sphingolipid metabolism pathways during tamsulosin treatment is effective in the occurrence of nasal congestion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides important information for tamsulosin therapy with high efficacy and low side effects in precision medicine.

Floppy iris syndrome associated with specific medication intake: A narrative review

Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) is a cataract surgery complication that remains a challenge for eye surgeons. It is caused by the antagonism of alfa-1-adrenergic receptors within the dilator muscle of the iris, thus preventing the iris from dilation during a cataract surgery. The long-term blocking alfa-1 adrenergic receptors by the chronic use of a number of systemic medications may lead to permanent anatomical atrophy of the dilator muscle of the iris. The most common drugs associated with the development of IFIS are tamsulosin and other alpha-1 adrenergic receptor antagonists prescribed to patients with low urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). There are other systemic medications that have been reported to have increased risk for IFIS. It is crucial for the ophthalmologist to identify the high-risk patients prone to develop IFIS. Its presence may complicate the course of cataract surgery, ultimately negatively affecting visual outcome. Cataract surgery should be performed by an experienced eye surgeon using alternative pharmacological and surgical techniques. Interdisciplinary cooperation is essential to mitigate potential complications. Patients should be informed by their physicians about the need to report a medication history to their eye specialists, especially before cataract surgery.

α1-Adrenergic Receptors: Insights into Potential Therapeutic Opportunities for COVID-19, Heart Failure, and Alzheimer's Disease

α1-Adrenergic receptors (ARs) are members of the G-Protein Coupled Receptor superfamily and with other related receptors (β and α2), they are involved in regulating the sympathetic nervous system through binding and activation by norepinephrine and epinephrine. Traditionally, α1-AR antagonists were first used as anti-hypertensives, as α1-AR activation increases vasoconstriction, but they are not a first-line use at present. The current usage of α1-AR antagonists increases urinary flow in benign prostatic hyperplasia. α1-AR agonists are used in septic shock, but the increased blood pressure response limits use for other conditions. However, with the advent of genetic-based animal models of the subtypes, drug design of highly selective ligands, scientists have discovered potentially newer uses for both agonists and antagonists of the α1-AR. In this review, we highlight newer treatment potential for α1A-AR agonists (heart failure, ischemia, and Alzheimer's disease) and non-selective α1-AR antagonists (COVID-19/SARS, Parkinson's disease, and posttraumatic stress disorder). While the studies reviewed here are still preclinical in cell lines and rodent disease models or have undergone initial clinical trials, potential therapeutics discussed here should not be used for non-approved conditions.

Impact of intraoperative floppy IRIS syndrome in cataract surgery by phacoemulsification: Analysis of 622 cases

BACKGROUND

Small pupil syndromes, including IFIS, increase the risk of complications during cataract surgery if proper surgical planning is not performed. Tamsulosin is associated with a very significant increase in the risk of IFIS, due to the prolonged inactivation of alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle fiber of the iris.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Single-center prospective observational study, carried out at the Hospital de l'Esperança - Parc de Salut Mar.

RESULTS

622 eyes of 502 patients were included, of which 337 (62%) were women. The mean age of the sample is 74.8 years. 61 cases of IFIS (11%) were observed, of which 13 received treatment with Tamsulosin and 1 with Doxazosin. 23 cases of IFIS were observed in female patients. The female:male ratio was approximately 1:3. 19 cases (3%) of severe IFIS were observed, of which 6 received treatment with alpha-antagonists, with no statistically significant correlation. The mean surgical time was 13.80 min (Standard Deviation - SD: 4.01 min) in patients without IFIS and 16.93 min (SD: 4.32 min) in patients with IFIS. The relationship between the duration of the surgical procedure in minutes and the presence of IFIS was statistically significant, applying a 'two-tailed' or bilateral t-Student test with a p value of 0.01.

CONCLUSION

Regardless of the degree of severity, the diagnosis of IFIS lengthens the surgical time in cataract surgery. This represents yet another piece of evidence that supports the use of less selective alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist treatments than Tamsulosin or the performance of cataract surgery before starting these treatments.

Impact of perioperative α1-antagonists on postoperative urinary retention in orthopaedic surgery: meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is a common complication following orthopaedic surgery. Previous studies attempted to establish the preventative role of α1-antagonist in POUR in the general surgical population; however, there is still no consensus regarding its use in orthopaedic surgery due to limited evidence.

METHODS

Electronic databases of Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched by two independent investigators from inception to 1 March 2022 to identify relevant randomized clinical trials. Two reviewers independently completed a critical appraisal of included trials by using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2.0 and extracted data from included articles. Risk of POUR was summarized as risk ratio (RR) with 95 per cent confidence intervals (c.i.). Mean difference (MD) was used for meta-analysis of continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Five randomized clinical trials involving 878 patients (α1-antagonist, 434; placebo, 444) undergoing hip/knee arthroplasty and spine surgeries were included. One study was assessed as high risk of bias from the randomization process and was excluded from the final meta-analysis. There was no difference in the risk of POUR between patients taking α1-antagonist and the placebo in arthroplasty (RR, 0.64; 95 per cent c.i., 0.36 to 1.14) and in spine surgeries (RR, 1.03; 95 per cent c.i., 0.69 to 1.55). There was no difference in length of stay (MD, -0.14 days; 95 per cent c.i., -0.33 to 0.05). Use of α1-antagonist was associated with a higher risk of adverse events (RR, 1.97; 95 per cent c.i., 1.27 to 3.06), with a composite of dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, altered mental status, and syncope being the most commonly reported symptoms.

CONCLUSION

In patients undergoing spinal surgery and joint arthroplasty, routine administration of perioperative α1-antagonist does not decrease risk of POUR but does increase perioperative dizziness, light-headedness, and syncope.

Factors predisposing to intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome: An up-to-date meta-analysis

Intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome (IFIS) is an increasingly recognized condition that is proven to lead to higher rates of intraoperative complications. This study provides an updated systematic review and meta-analysis regarding all the identified factors predisposing to IFIS. The study was performed in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. 38 studies were finally included in the meta-analysis. The factors that were found to predispose to IFIS significantly were male sex (odds ratio [OR], 4.25; CI, 2.58-7.01), hypertension (OR, 1.55; CI, 1.01-2.37), tamsulosin (OR, 31.06; CI, 13.74-70.22), finasteride (OR, 4.60; CI, 1.97-10.73), benzodiazepines (OR, 2.88; CI, 1.17-7.12), and antipsychotics intake (OR, 6.91; CI, 2.22-21.50). A decreased dilated pupil preoperatively was found predisposing to IFIS (weighted mean difference -0.93; CI, -1.19 to -0.67). Intracameral epinephrine, which was investigated as a potential prophylactic measure for preventing IFIS, did not reach statistical significance (OR, 0.29; CI, 0.08-1.06). A comprehensive preoperative assessment of all risk factors is vital to stratify the surgical risk, which is crucial in addressing IFIS because unanticipated IFIS could turn a routine surgery into one of significant visual morbidity.

The Selective α1 Antagonist Tamsulosin Alters ECM Distributions and Cellular Metabolic Functions of ARPE 19 Cells in a Concentration-Dependent Manner

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of the selective α1 antagonist tamsulosin (TAM) on human retinal pigment epithelium cells, ARPE 19. Two-dimension (2D) and three-dimension (3D) cultured ARPE 19 cells were used in the following characterizations: (1) ultrastructure by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) (2D); (2) barrier functions by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements, and FITC-dextran permeability (2D); (3) real time cellular metabolisms by Seahorse Bioanalyzer (2D); (4) physical properties, size and stiffness measurements (3D); and (5) expression of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, including collagen1 (COL1), COL4, COL6 and fibronectin (FN) by qPCR and immunohistochemistry (2D and 3D). TAM induced significant effects including: (1) alteration of the localization of the ECM deposits; (2) increase and decrease of the TEER values and FITC-dextran permeability, respectively; (3) energy shift from glycolysis into mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS); (4) large and stiffened 3D spheroids; and (5) down-regulations of the mRNA expressions and immune labeling of most ECM proteins in a concentration-dependent manner. However, in some ECM proteins, COL1 and COL6, their immunolabeling intensities were increased at the lowest concentration (1 μM) of TAM. Such a discrepancy between the gene expressions and immunolabeling of ECM proteins may support alterations of ECM localizations as observed by SEM. The findings reported herein indicate that the selective α1 antagonist, TAM, significantly influenced ECM production and distribution as well as cellular metabolism levels in a concentration-dependent manner.

Risk of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome among selective alpha-1 blockers—A consistency model of 6,488 cases

Selective α1-blockers are commonly administered to patients with lower urinary tract syndrome and benign prostatic hyperplasia, but may increase the risk of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS). The purpose of this study aimed to clarify the risk of IFIS among various selective α1-blockers. Four databases were searched for prospective studies comparing alpha-1-antagonists. Data were pooled using the consistency model, and used risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) for IFIS and pupil diameter, respectively. This study finally included 25 prospective comparative studies. Based on 51 direct comparisons with 6488 cases, risks of IFIS in patients who received tamsulosin [RR, 13.85; 95% confidence interval (CI): 7.34 to 26.11], terazosin (RR, 8.94; 95% CI 2.88 to 27.74), alfuzosin (RR, 7.73; 95% CI: 3.05 to 19.62), and doxazosin (RR, 3.88; 95% CI: 1.13 to 13.28) were significantly higher than those did not receive α1-antagonists. Based on 11 direct comparisons with 564 cases, as compared to no α1-antagonists, patients who received tamsulosin (MD, −0.36; 95% CI: −0.71 to −0.01) and alfuzosin (MD, −0.34; 95% CI: −0.62 to −0.07) showed smaller pupil diameter under mesopic light levels, while those received silodosin did not show significantly smaller mesopic pupil diameter than people without α1-antagonists. IFIS seems to be inevitable with the usage of α1-antagonists, and tamsulosin needs to be cautious due to the significantly higher risk of severe IFIS. With regard to silodosin, there is no strong evidence to support the uses of italthough it does not significantly decrease mesopic pupil diameter.

[Intraoperative floppy iris syndrom (IFIS) associated with tamsulosin]

BACKGROUND

Tamsulosin is one of the most commonly prescribed alpha-1A antagonists for the treatment of benign prostatic syndrome (BPS). Patients treated with tamsulosin often develop intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) during cataract surgery. This leads to increasing miosis and an undulating iris, which increases the risk of complications significantly and can cause permanent damage.

AIM OF THE WORK

The aim is to raise awareness for the effects of tamsulosin intake before cataract surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a critical review of publications on the association of IFIS in cataract surgery with alpha-receptor blockers.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Tamsulosin has a risk of complications of up to 80 %, whereas doxazosin and alfuzosin only have a 15-20 % chance of complications. Tamsulosin therefore represents a significant risk factor for permanent secondary damage after cataract surgery. Even after discontinuing tamsulosin, IFIS was still observed after up to 3 years. Nevertheless, pausing of tamsulosin intake is recommended. An alternative preparation should therefore be preferred in patients who have not yet had cataract surgery. If patients are already pseudophakic, tamsulosin can be given without concern.

Relationship Between Tamsulosin Use and Surgical Complications of Cataract Surgery in Elderly Patients: Population-Based Cohort Study

Purpose

Although several previous studies have investigated the relationship between tamsulosin use and surgical complications of cataract surgery, no population-based cohort study has been conducted for the Asian population. We aimed to investigate the relationship between tamsulosin use and surgical complications of cataract surgery in the Korean elderly population.

Methods

This nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study included elderly patients (≥60 years) who had undergone cataract surgery in the period from 2003 to 2015. Baseline characteristics were age, sex, income, residence, and systemic, and ocular comorbidities (glaucoma, myopia, eye trauma, diabetes mellitus with ophthalmic manifestations, severe cataract, age-related macular degeneration). The exposure of interest was tamsulosin use within 1 year before cataract surgery. Logistic regression model was used to evaluate the relationship of tamsulosin use with surgical complications of cataract surgery.

Results

The rate of surgical complications of cataract surgery was 0.88% (375/42,539) in the non-tamsulosin group and 0.83% (71/8,510) in the tamsulosin group. The groups showed no significant difference in the risk of surgical complications of cataract surgery in the unadjusted model [odds ratio (OR) = 0.946; 95% confidence interval (CI):0.733–1.220; P = 0.669]. Additionally, tamsulosin use was not significantly associated with surgical complications of cataract surgery in the fully adjusted model accounting for age, income, residence, and systemic and ocular comorbidities (OR = 0.997; 95% CI: 0.749–1.325; P = 0.981).

Conclusions

The rate or risk of surgical complications of cataract surgery does not change with tamsulosin use. We suggest that better surgical techniques and surgeons' cognizance of the patient's tamsulosin use could improve surgical outcomes, without increasing surgical complications.

Risk and Impact of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infection on Corneal Transplantation: A Case-Control Study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the risk of symptomatic severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection after corneal transplantation surgery, with cataract surgeries as controls, and the impact of the novel coronavirus disease pandemic in the clinical and surgical complications of corneal transplantation and cataract surgeries.

METHODS

A retrospective matched case-control study of 480 consecutive individuals who underwent surgery at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute between May 2020 and November 2020. A total of 240 patients who underwent corneal transplantation with tissue obtained from the Florida Lions Eye Bank were age, race, ethnicity, and sex matched with 240 patients who underwent cataract surgery during the same day and by the same surgical team. Only the first corneal transplant or cataract surgery during this period was considered for each individual. All donors and recipients were deemed SARS-CoV-2 negative by a nasopharyngeal polymerase chain reaction test before surgery. Postoperative SARS-CoV-2 infections were defined as previously SARS-CoV-2(-) individuals who developed symptoms or had a positive SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction test during the first postoperative month.

RESULTS

Mean age, sex, race, and ethnicity were similar between groups. There were no differences between the corneal transplant and cataract groups in the rates of SARS-CoV-2 infection before (5.8% vs. 7.5%, P= 0.6) or after surgery (2.9% vs. 2.9%, P = 1). The rates of postoperative complications did not increase during the pandemic, compared with previously reported ranges.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, postoperative SARS-CoV-2 infection was similar for individuals undergoing corneal transplantation or cataract surgery. Further research is required to evaluate the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through corneal tissue.

Risk factors for posterior capsule rupture in cataract surgery as reflected in the European Registry of Quality Outcomes for Cataract and Refractive Surgery

PURPOSE

To analyze the incidence and risk factors for posterior capsule rupture (PCR) in cataract surgery.

SETTING

European clinics affiliated with the European Registry of Quality Outcomes for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (EUREQUO).

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional register-based study.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the EUREQUO. The database contains data on demographics, comorbidities, and intraoperative complications, including PCR for the study period from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2018. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the (adjusted) odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

We analyzed EUREQUO registry data of 2,853,376 patients, and 31,749 (1.1%) cataract surgeries were complicated by a PCR. Data were available of 2 853 376 patients, and 31 749 (1.1%) cataract surgeries were complicated by a PCR. The PCR rate ranged from 0.60% to 1.65% throughout the years, with a decreasing trend (P < .001). The mean age of the PCR cohort was 74.8 ± 10.5 years, and 17 29 (55.5%) patients were female. Risk factors most significantly associated with PCR were corneal opacities (OR 3.21, 95% CI, 3.02-3.41, P < .001), diabetic retinopathy (OR 2.74, 95% CI, 2.59-2.90, P < .001), poor preoperative visual acuity (OR 1.98, 95% CI, 1.88-2.07, P < .001), and white cataract (OR 1.87, 95% CI, 1.72-2.03, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Risk factors for PCR were identified based on the EUREQUO, and the incidence of this complication is decreasing over time.

Dealing with floppy iris syndrome

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to review and summarize recent findings and advancements regarding intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS). Although many improvements have been made for the management of IFIS, it remains a challenging condition for surgeons. An understanding of the syndrome as well as the multitude of tools to mitigate risk of complication is important for surgeons operating on high-risk patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

A variety of management approaches have been modified and improved or further supported with new data, such as intracameral compounds, intraoperative devices and surgical techniques.

SUMMARY

An understanding of risk factors is important for the identification of at-risk patients. A variety of approaches can greatly reduce incidence of IFIS complications. Multiple management strategies should be utilized to further reduce risk during these difficult surgeries.

Preoperative atropine and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the prevention of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome

PURPOSE

To examine the efficacy of preoperative administration of topical atropine 1% and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for prevention of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS).

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent cataract surgery by phacoemulsification between July 2019 and February 2020 in two hospitals were included. Both hospitals are located in central Israel, have similar patient demographics and employ similar surgical techniques. They, however, differ in policy of IFIS prevention. In Meir Medical Center no preventive medications are given pre-operatively, while in Shamir Medical Center patients at-risk for IFIS receive topical atropine 1% once daily and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) thrice daily for 3 days preoperatively.

RESULTS

Overall, 207 eyes of 207 patients with history of alpha-antagonist use were included. Mean age was 74.9 ± 7.8 years and 82.1% (n = 170) were male. Among patients from the pretreating center 86.8% (n = 92/106) were pre-treated with either NSAIDs or atropine preoperatively, while in the non-pretreating center no treatment was prescribed (n = 0/101). IFIS rate among the non-pretreating center was 29.7% (n = 30/101) compared to 15.1% (n = 16/106) in the pretreating center (p = 0.012). When strictly comparing treated to untreated patients, the treated group had an IFIS rate of 12.0% compared to 30.4% among untreated (p = 0.001). Adjusted for age and gender results remain consistent (odds ratio 0.329 for treated patients, 95% confidence interval: 0.150-0.720; p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

IFIS rates were significantly lower in the pretreating center compared to the non-pretreating center. When comparing strictly treated to untreated patients, differences were even more pronounced.

Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Devices (OVDs) in Challenging Cases: a Review

Ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (OVDs) are currently used in cataract surgery and have significantly improved the safety and effectiveness of this surgical procedure. OVDs are classified according to the zero-shear viscosity and the cohesion-dispersion index in cohesive, dispersive, and viscoadaptives. OVDs create and maintain anterior chamber depth and visibility, protecting the corneal endothelium and other intraocular tissues during surgery. The selection of the most adequate OVD is especially relevant when performing cataract surgery in challenging cases, such as in hard, mature cataracts, flat anterior chamber, pseudoexfoliation syndrome, intraoperative floppy iris syndrome, or glaucoma surgery. In such cases, OVD is crucial for facilitating the surgical procedure and the associated minimal complication rate. The use of a combination of OVDs (soft-shell technique and modifications), the use of blue-colored OVDs, and the combination of sodium hyaluronate with lidocaine have also been described as useful tools in some of these challenging cases.

Silodosin as a predisposing factor of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS): an observational propensity score-matching cohort study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the correlation between silodosin and intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) and compare it with other a1-adrenergic receptor antagonists (a1-ARAs) and other factors predisposing to IFIS.

METHODS

From the patients who underwent phacoemulsification between 2014 and 2020, we identified all patients who, during their preoperative assessment, reported an a1-ARAs intake (exposed group). These patients were matched utilizing a propensity score matching analysis with an otherwise homogenous group of patients (control group) based on demographics and systemic/ocular comorbidities.

RESULTS

A total of 350 patients were included in each group. In the exposed group, 177 (50.6%) patients were exposed to tamsulosin, 105 (30%) to alfuzosin, 43 (12.2%) to silodosin. Regarding IFIS, it was observed in 21.5% of patients on tamsulosin (38/177), 11.4% on alfuzosin (12/105), 37.2% on silodosin (16/43), and 3.4% in the controlled group (12/350). In a multiple regression model analysis, the only two factors significantly associated with IFIS development were silodosin and tamsulosin yielding an adjusted odds ratio of 8.471 (95%CI 4.005-17.920) and 3.803 (95%CI 2.231-6.485), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Silodosin has been demonstrated as a predisposing factor, strongly correlated with IFIS development. These results should increase cataract surgeons' awareness to assess their patients preoperatively for exposure to silodosin carefully and employ the appropriate prophylactic measures to ameliorate the impact of silodosin intake on the surgical outcome.

Efficacy of a hinged pupil expansion device in small pupil cataract surgery

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a hinged pupil expansion device (PED) in eyes with small pupils undergoing phacoemulsification.

Methods:

In this prospective, multicenter, interventional case series of 57 eyes with suboptimal pharmacologic pupil dilation (<5 mm diameter), a hinged PED (I-Ring, Beaver-Visitec International, Waltham, MA) was applied to facilitate surgical visualization during cataract surgery. The pupil diameters (PD) were measured at different stages of the procedure and at the 1-month follow-up visit. Rate of successful intraoperative PED deployment, pupil size, and shape were assessed.

Results:

The mean patient age was 70.5 ± 12.1 years. The I-Ring PED was successfully applied in all eyes. The mean PD at various stages were 4.1 ± 1.1 mm (dilation with eye drops only preoperatively), 4.3 ± 1.1 mm (dilation after intracameral epinephrine and ophthalmic viscoelastic device), 6.80 ± 0.00 mm (with PED applied), and 5.7 ± 1.1 mm (end of surgery). A statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) was observed between the mean PD with intracameral medications and with PED application. Postoperative circular pupil was observed in 54 of 57 eyes (94.7%) and the mean eccentricity index (n = 57 eyes) was 0.11 ± 0.22. No significant adverse events were observed.

Conclusion:

The I-Ring PED safely and effectively provided and maintained adequate pupil expansion and surgical visualization in eyes with small pupils undergoing cataract surgery. Postoperatively 95% of eyes attained circular pupils. This hinged PED is an additional instrumentation option for the safe and effective expansion of inadequately sized pupils during cataract surgery.

Outcomes of first 50 cases using a new pupil expander

PURPOSE

To describe the initial experience with the Assia Pupil Expander 200 (APX-200, APX Ophthalmology) in eyes that underwent phacoemulsification or intraocular lens repositioning surgery that required mechanical pupil expansion.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar-Saba, and Ein-Tal Eye Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

The APX-200 is a single-use device, intended for mechanical expansion of the pupil during intraocular surgery. Two devices are inserted through 2 opposite 19-gauge incisions using designated forceps. The surgical course and early postoperative follow-up was recorded in 50 eyes.

RESULTS

The study included 50 consecutive eyes, with mean preoperative pupil diameter was 3.7 mm. The APX effectively dilated the pupils in all cases. No complication related to the use of the APX such as hyphema, iridodialysis, or Descemet membrane detachment were noted in this series. A central and round pupil was restored in all eyes at 1-month postoperatively, with 14 eyes (28%) having mild sphincter tears. Pupilloplasty was not required in any of the cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The APX-200 was an effective and safe device for pupil expansion during intraocular surgery.

Development of a reliable preoperative risk stratification system for phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To present a statistically validated risk classification system for intraoperative complications in cataract surgery.

SETTING

2nd Department of Ophthalmology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

METHODS

All patients underwent phacoemulsification surgery by experienced, high-volume surgeons for cases with intraoperative complications. The presence of several risk factors was statistically assessed with the help of multiple correspondence analysis to determine the more reliable rank categorization for severity and to calculate a total risk score.

RESULTS

This study included 1572 consecutive patients. The proposed system had 3 risk groups and a no-risk group and had high statistical reliability. A comparison of this system against a previously asserted empirical system showed higher internal reliability.

CONCLUSIONS

Previous efforts to construct a risk classification system for intraoperative complications in cataract surgery have been empirically defined and tested against practice-as-usual. The system in this study quantified risk more accurately and provided an experienced clinician with a reliable means of assessing the preoperational likelihood of intraoperative complications.

Comparison of effects of tamsulosin and silodosin on subfoveal choroidal thickness and pupil size diameters in patients with prostatic hyperplasia

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of selective α-1 adrenoceptor antagonists on subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and pupil diameter size (PDS).

METHODS

This prospective study included 87 patients diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia who were treated with tamsulosin hydrochloride (n = 41) or silodosin (n = 46). SFCT measurements were obtained using spectral domain optic coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and PDS measurements were obtained under mesopic, photopic and scotopic conditions using a photography-based topography system. SFCT and PDS were evaluated at baseline and 3-, 6- and 12-mo follow-ups.

RESULTS

The initial mean SFCT was 270.53 ± 21.48 µm in tamsulosin group and 271.95 ± 24. 73 in silodosin group (P = 0.078). There was no statistically significant change in SFCT at the 3-mo visit. At the 6-mo follow-up, the mean SFCT was 281.34 ± 22.09 µm in tamsulosin group and 272.5 ± 22.4 µm in silodosin group. At the 12th month, the mean SFCT in tamsulosin group was 290.80 ± 17.27 µm, and it was 270.80 ± 13.14 µm in silodosin group. There was statistically significant difference in at 6th and 12-mo visits (P = 0.014 and P = 0.00). During the follow-up, both drugs induced a similar significant decrease in PDS under all conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Tamsulosin hydrochloride caused a significant increase in SFCT. In contrast, SFCT did not increase in silodosin group. The decreases in PDS achieved using both drugs were similar. This should be kept in mind when choroidal disease and its response to treatment are followed by CT imaging.

Predictive value of pupillography on intraoperative floppy iris syndrome in preoperative period

AIM

To present the frequency of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) in cataract patients who taking alpha 1-a receptor antagonist (ARA) drugs, and evaluate the predictive value of pupil diameter (PD) changes in IFIS patients.

METHODS

Male cataract patients who are under treatment with alpha-1a-ARAs (alfuzosin, tamsulosin) intraoperatively were evaluated and were grouped as with/without IFIS. The preoperative PD values were compared with controls. Also, the intraoperative manipulations and early/late complications were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 77 patients (77 eyes) of 94 benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) patients have been defined as IFIS (81.91%) and 40 patients (40 eyes) were taking tamsulosin and 37 patients (37 eyes) were taking alfuzosin. During the cataract surgery, the rate of posterior capsular rupture (P=0.754), vitreous loss (P=0.585), iris tears (P=0.004), and iris catching (P=0.000) were higher in IFIS group, but the difference was significant only in the iris catching. At the postoperative first-month visit, persistent IOP rise and iris stromal tears were more frequent in IFIS group, but the difference was not significant (P=0.311, P=0.146; respectively). In contrast, Descemet membrane detachment was insignificantly more frequent in controls (P=0.311). In IFIS and control patients, PDs were 9.54±1.78 and 9.72±1.57 mm (P=0.255) under scotopic illumination, 8.54±1.43 and 8.74±1.25 mm (P=0.289) under mesopic illumination, 6.99±1.35 and 7.27±1.39 mm (P=0.662) under photopic illumination, respectively. However PDs were lower in IFIS under all illumination degrees, no significant difference was detected between groups.

CONCLUSION

IFIS is a significant clinical syndrome with an increased intraoperative/postoperative complication ratio. The prediction of this syndrome is important because of prevention required precautions against possible complications. There is no association between IFIS and preoperative PD.

Modified hydrodissection to prevent intraoperative iris prolapse

A modified hydrodissection technique to prevent intraoperative iris prolapse is presented. The phacoemulsification tip is inserted into the main ocular incision while hydrodissection is performed through a side-port incision. Placement of the phacoemulsification tip in this location prevents iris prolapse. This technique can be used routinely and might be especially applicable in cases with a high risk for iris prolapse, such as in intraoperative floppy-iris syndrome.

Why Use Ultrashort Pulses in Ophthalmology and Which Factors Affect Cut Quality

The power density of femtosecond lasers and exposure time to the tissue are crucial for a successful procedure in terms of safety and precision. The reduction of the pulse duration allows reducing the quantity of the energy to be delivered to the tissue for disruption with strongly diminished mechanical and thermal collateral damage. The cutting effect of ultra-short pulses is very precise, minimally traumatic, safe, and predictable. Future developments will lead to further energy reductions to achieve optical breakdowns. However, the pulse length cannot be shortened arbitrarily because below 100 fs nonlinear effects can change the process in an unfavorable way. Compared to manual-conventional cataract surgery, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) shows many advantages in clinical application, especially with regard to precision and tissue protection. The femtosecond laser has become particularly important and has made the overall procedure safer when we deal with complex cataract cases such as subluxated lenses. We provide an overview of the evolution of femtosecond laser technology for use in refractive and cataract surgeries. This article describes the advantages of available laser platforms with ultrashort pulses and mainly focuses on the technical and physical backgrounds of ophthalmic surgery technologies.

Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome: an updated review of literature

Intraoperative Floppy iris syndrome(IFIS) remains a challenge for surgeons during phacoemulsification. Initially, it was related to the use of tamsulosin, an alpha adrenergic receptor blocker used in benign prostatic hyperplasia. Subsequently, other alpha adrenergic receptor such as alfuzosin, terazosin and doxazosin alongwith different other class of medications and systemic risk factors were identified. Other class of medications includes 5-alpha reductase inhibitor, angiotensin receptor antagonist, benzodiazepines, antipsychotics and antidepressants. Other risk factors include increasing age, male gender, diabetes, hypertension and decreased preoperative pupil diameter. It is very important for surgeons to identify these risk factors preoperatively and take appropriate preoperative and intraoperative measures to tackle the dreaded complications of IFIS. Sometimes, it is important for an ophthalmologist to work in cooperation with physician and urologist to minimize the complications. In conclusion, awareness of the risk factors associated with IFIS, their detailed preoperative assessment and intraoperative measures and surgical intervention is crucial in addressing IFIS. Lack of awareness can turn a routine, uneventful surgery into one with significant visual morbidity.

Preoperative Management of Endocrine, Hormonal, and Urologic Medications: Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement (SPAQI) Consensus Statement

Perioperative medical management is challenging due to the rising complexity of patients presenting for surgical procedures. A key part of preoperative optimization is appropriate management of long-term medications, yet guidelines and consensus statements for perioperative medication management are lacking. Available resources utilize the recommendations derived from individual studies and do not include a multidisciplinary focus or formal consensus. The Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement (SPAQI) identified a lack of authoritative clinical guidance as an opportunity to utilize its multidisciplinary membership to improve evidence-based perioperative care. SPAQI seeks to provide guidance on perioperative medication management that synthesizes available literature with expert consensus. The aim of this Consensus Statement is to provide practical guidance on the preoperative management of endocrine, hormonal, and urologic medications. A panel of experts with anesthesiology, perioperative medicine, hospital medicine, general internal medicine, and medical specialty experience was drawn together and identified the common medications in each of these categories. The authors then utilized a modified Delphi approach to critically review the literature and generate consensus recommendations.

Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome Induced by Tamsulosin: The Risk and Preventive Strategies

Tamsulosin is an antagonist of a subtype-specific alpha-1A- and alpha-1D-adrenoceptor (AR) that is expressed in the prostate gland, urethra, and bladder. Several reports have shown a possible relationship between ophthalmologic adverse effects and the use of alpha-1-receptor medicines, including tamsulosin. This descriptive review evaluates the intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) associated with tamsulosin. A search of the Medline and PubMed databases was conducted to identify control trials, case reports, and observational examinations published in English. The publication dates were restricted (January 1, 2000, to January 1, 2020). Keywords (tamsulosin, alpha-blocker, ocular, eye, adverse reaction, and IFIS) were used in the searches. The searches identified 66 studies including in vitro or in vivo studies, trials, and observational studies. Twenty-two (33.33%) studies were articles citing tamsulosin and IFIS as having confirmed potential risk to ocular safety. The results of this review, including a comprehensive summary of published research on tamsulosin use in different populations, have identified several articles showing associations between tamsulosin and IFIS that merit further investigation. Suspending of potential causative pharmacological treatment of IFIS before ocular surgery including tamsulosin, proper identification of at-risk patients, preoperative prophylaxis treatments, and surgical technique modifications clearly can mitigate the anticipated risk of IFIS induced by tamsulosin.

Atropine in topical formulations for the management of anterior and posterior segment ocular diseases

INTRODUCTION

Atropine is an old-known drug which is gaining increasing attention due to the myriad of therapeutic effects it may trigger on eye structures. Nevertheless, novel applications may require more adequate topical formulations.

AREAS COVERED

This review aims to gather the existing knowledge about atropine and its clinical applications in the ophthalmological field when administered topically. Atropine ocular pharmacokinetics is paid a special attention, including recent evidences of the capability of the drug to access to the posterior segment. Ocular bioavailability and systemic bioavailability are counterbalanced. Finally, limitations of traditional dosage forms and potential advantages of under investigation delivery systems are analyzed.

EXPERT OPINION

Mydriasis and cyclopegia have been widely exploited for eye examination, management of anterior segment diseases, and more recently as antidotes of chemical weapons. Improved knowledge on drug receptors and related pathways explains atropine repositioning as an outstanding tool to prevent myopia. The ease with which atropine penetrates ocular tissues is a double edged sword, that is, while it ensures therapeutic levels in the posterior segment, the unspecific distribution causes a wide variety of untoward effects. The design of formulations that can selectively deliver atropine to the target tissue for each specific application is an urgent unmet need.

Management of common iatrogenic iris defects induced by cataract surgery

The proximity of the iris to the instruments and currents of cataract surgery makes iatrogenic damage to the iris a common complication of cataract surgery. This article discusses techniques to prevent or minimize this damage. When damage does occur, the surgeon must decide if, when, and how to repair the damage. Principles governing these decisions and techniques for repair are discussed. Figures and videos, included as online Supplemental Data files, illustrate cases of iatrogenic damage and repair techniques.

Evaluation of static and dynamic Pupillometry changes in men using Silodosin for benign prostatic hypertrophy

Background

Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome is a variant of the small pupil syndrome that has been observed during cataract surgery in some patients currently or previously treated with α1 adrenergic blockers. It is important for cataract surgeons to predict the probable complications preoperatively. Our study aims to evaluate the static and dynamic pupil characteristics of patients treated with silodosin—a selective α1 adrenergic blocker—for benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) and to compare these values with healthy subjects using an automatic quantitative pupillometry system.

Methods

A total of 74 BPH patients treated with silodosin for six months (group 1) and 30 healthy subjects (group 2) were enrolled in this prospective multidisciplinary cross-sectional study. Static and dynamic pupillometric measurements were obtained under optimized conditions, and the results were compared between the two groups.

Results

Seventy-four male patients with a mean age of 63,35 ± 7,21 (46–77) years with BPH treated with silodosin and 30 normal male subjects with a mean age of 63,07 ± 4,73 (52–71) years were analyzed. There were statistically significant differences between the groups with regard to scotopic pupil diameter (PD), high photopic PD, and low photopic PD (p < 0.001, for each one). The patient group had statistically significant higher values of amplitude and velocity of pupil contraction and lower values of duration of pupil contraction and latency as well as duration and velocity of pupil dilation.

Conclusion

The static and dynamic pupil characteristics of subjects treated with silodosin for BPH are different from those of healthy eyes. In addition, our results may have shed light on the risk for intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) before cataract surgery; thus, surgeons can be alert and take precautions.

Preoperative ocular characteristics predicting the development of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome regardless of alpha-antagonist exposure status

PURPOSE

To assess structural risk factors for intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) available on preoperative examination before cataract surgery.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, medical records of patients who underwent cataract surgery in Shamir Medical Center, between July and September 2019, were reviewed. Patients younger than 50 years, with preexisting ocular conditions affecting the pupillary size or anterior chamber depth (ACD), and combined procedures were excluded. Association of IFIS with preoperative ocular parameters was tested using uni- and multivariant analyses.

RESULTS

Overall, 394 eyes of 394 patients were included. The mean age was 72.48 ± 8.63 years, and 58.4% were female. IFIS occurred in 18 eyes (4.6%), seven (38.89%) of which had been previously treated with alpha-antagonists. Patients in the IFIS group were significantly older compared with those in the non-IFIS group (78.1 ± 6.7 vs. 72.2 ± 8.6 years, P = 0.005), with no significant gender difference. The mydriatic pupil diameter was significantly smaller in the IFIS group (5.73 ± 1.16 vs. 6.97 ± 1.03 mm, P < 0.001), and the lens thickness (LT) was larger (4.93 ± 0.42 vs. 4.49 ± 0.42 mm, P = 0.001). ACD was inversely correlated with LT (r = - 0.613, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with pupil diameter (r = 0.252, P < 0.001). On univariate analysis, ACD was significantly shallower in the IFIS group (2.88 ± 0.49 vs. 3.14 ± 0.39 mm, P = 0.008). In multivariant analysis controlling for alpha-antagonist use, both LT and mydriatic pupil diameter remained significantly predictive of IFIS (LT: OR 9.9, 95%CI 1.9-49, P = 0.005; pupil diameter OR 0.427, 95%CI 0.26-0.69, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Increased LT and decreased mydriatic pupil diameter were associated with increased IFIS risk regardless of alpha-antagonist treatment status.

A narrative review of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome: an update 2020

Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) is characterized by intraoperative floppiness or billowing of the iris, progressive miosis, and iris prolapse through the surgical wounds. It was originally reported about fifteen years ago, which was later identified to be closely associated with tamsulosin, the most commonly used α1 adrenoceptor antagonist for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). A variety of risk factors, including age, gender, hypertension, axial length of the eye, 5α-reductase inhibitors, other α adrenoceptor antagonist and neuromodulators, have been connected with IFIS. If IFIS occurs during phacoemulsification surgery, complications such as corneal endothelial loss, iris trauma, posterior capsule rupture (PCR), high intraocular pressure and vitreous loss are significantly increased. Therefore, preoperative evaluation of high-risk patients and appropriate intraoperative intervention is crucial to avoid severe complications. This review summarizes the pathogenesis and clinical features of classic IFIS, and provides some clinical pearls to ophthalmologists that may help identify, prevent or reduce IFIS associated complications. Additionally, from the perspective of clinical occurrence of IFIS, there are some recommendations for urologists as well. In conclusion, both ophthalmologists and urologists should be aware of this special clinical situation and communicate with each other about their own fields. A multidisciplinary interaction is of importance to simplify potentially complicated clinical issues.

Choroidal evaluation in patients under alpha-lytic therapy

PURPOSE

To detect any choroidal thickness (CT) change in patients after alpha-lytic drugs withdrawal that could help in the cataract surgery timing decision.

METHODS

Twenty-five eyes of 25 patients (mean age: 76 ± 7 years) under alpha-lytic therapy, and 25 eyes of 25 control subjects (CS) (mean age: 75 ± 7 years) without alpha-lytic therapy, both scheduled for cataract surgery in the fellow eye, were included in this observational, prospective, non-randomized study. All patients underwent EDI-OCT during the first preoperative visit and approximately 1 month (range 28-31 days) after alpha-lytic withdrawal. In the CS group, the OCT during preoperative visit and approximately 1 month after (range 28-31 days) the first examination was performed. Data normality with Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was checked and statistical evaluation with the Wilcoxon-signed rank test was performed.

RESULTS

The mean subfoveal CT was 224 ± 79.7 μm during therapy and 217 ± 70.4 μm after withdrawal; 1.5 mm nasally from the fovea CT was 198 ± 83.8 μm and 194 ± 82.8 μm, respectively; and 1.5 mm temporally from the fovea CT was 217 ± 55.9 μm and 205 ± 54.4 μm, respectively. A statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in all the 3 measured CT points was found. In the CS no significant changes were detected (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

No severe floppy iris syndrome was detected at the time of surgery. In these patients, CT decrease could be an important sign for cataract surgery timing decision.