Efficacy of balloon Eustachian tuboplasty as a first line treatment for otitis media with effusion in children

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of ventilation tube insertion and balloon Eustachian tuboplasty as a first line treatment for otitis media with effusion in children.

METHOD

This was a retrospective evaluation of 62 children, 30 cases that underwent balloon Eustachian tuboplasty (group 1) and 32 cases that underwent ventilation tube insertion (group 2), from July 2016 to April 2018.

RESULTS

The pre-operative air-bone gap of patients who underwent balloon Eustachian tuboplasty was 15-35 dB (mean: 27.6 ± 8.2 dB). The mean pre-operative air-bone gap decreased to 9.6 dB after a mean of 14.4 months (p < 0.05). The air-bone gap decreased from 25.6 dB to 17.6 dB in the ventilation tube group. There was a significant improvement in the air-bone gap values in both groups; however, this decrease was significantly higher in the balloon Eustachian tuboplasty group (p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

Balloon Eustachian tuboplasty may be an effective and safe method for use as a first-line treatment of otitis media with effusion in children.

Fascin expression in cholesteatoma: correlation with destruction of the ossicular chain and extent of disease

OBJECTIVE

Fascin is an actin-bundling protein found in cell membrane protrusions and increases cell motility. The expression of fascin in epithelial neoplasms has been described only recently. No data are available concerning the role of this protein in invasive cholesteatoma. Thus, we investigated the expression of fascin in cholesteatoma tissue and the relationship between fascin expression and intraoperative evaluation of the destruction of the ossicular chain and extent of disease.

METHOD

Cholesteatoma specimens of 28 patients and external auditory canal (EAC) skin specimens of the same patients (as the control group) were collected from mastoidectomies. Immunohistochemical technique was used to investigate the fascin expression in all cholesteatoma tissues and EAC skin specimens. Immunohistochemical staining was assessed semiquantitatively based on the thickness of epithelium. SPSS software version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was performed to statistically analyse the relationships between fascin expression and intraoperative evaluation destruction of ossicular chain and extent of the disease.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemically, there was no or very low fascin expression observed in normal epithelial cells of EAC skin, while expressed in cholesteatoma tissue. Also, fascin expression in cholesteatoma tissues was significantly correlated with destruction of ossicular chain and extent of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Fascin expression is usually found in cholesteatoma epithelium and is correlated with destruction of the ossicular chain and extent of disease. Considering all of the correlations between the clinical and histopathological findings, 'fascin immunoexpression scoring' may be used for histological grading of cholesteatoma.

A comparative study of tissue glue and vicryl suture for conjunctival and scleral closure in conventional 20-gauge vitrectomy

AIM

To describe the use of tissue glue to close scleral and conjunctival wounds, and to compare the clinical outcomes using tissue glue and vicryl suture for closing these areas in conventional 20-gauge (G) vitrectomy.

METHODS

Thirty eyes of 30 patients were included in this study. The indications for vitreoretinal surgery were diabetic vitreous haemorrhage with severe vitreoretinal traction in 10 eyes, retinal detachment and proliferative vitreoretinopathy in 14 eyes, and vitreous opacity in 6 eyes. Tissue glue (Tisseel, Baxter AG Industries, Vienna, Austria) was used to attach scleral and conjunctival wounds in 15 eyes and vicryl sutures in 15 eyes. The patients were allotted into two subgroups as tissue glue group (TG) and vicryl suture group (VG). The sclerotomy sites were evaluated with ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) postoperatively in TG. Follow-up period was 2 months. The groups were statistically compared for ocular signs and symptoms by Mann-Whitney U-test.

RESULTS

No scleral wound leakage and conjunctival reattachment were observed at the end of the surgical procedure and during the follow-up period. No adverse effects were seen in TG. Abnormal fibrous ingrowth was not detected at the sclerotomy sites by means of UBM in TG. Patient comfort was significantly higher in TG than VG (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Tissue glue has no adverse effects on ocular tissue and can be used as a substitute for suture materials, and the use of tissue glue decreases patient symptoms during the postoperative period after 20-G vitrectomy. Tissue glue can enable to perform sutureless surgery in the conventional 20-G vitrectomy.

Cataract surgery in previously vitrectomized eyes

PURPOSE

To evaluate the results of extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and phacoemulsification (PHACO) performed in previously vitrectomized eyes.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

In this retrospective study, 56 vitrectomized eyes that had ECCE and 60 vitrectomized eyes that had PHACO were included in the study group while 65 eyes that had PHACO in the control group. The evaluated parameters were the incidence of intra-operative and postoperative complications (IPC) and visual outcomes. Chi-squared, independent samples and paired samples tests were used for comparing the results.

RESULTS

Deep anterior chamber (AC) was significantly more common in the PHACO group of vitrectomized eyes (PGVE) and observed in eyes that had undergone extensive vitreous removal (p < 0.05). Except for this there were no significant differences in the rate of IPC between the ECCE group and the PGVE (p > 0.05). Some of the intra-operative conditions such as posterior synechiae, primary posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and postoperative complications such as retinal detachment (RD), PCO were significantly more common in vitrectomized eyes than the controls (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the visual acuity gain between the ECCE group and the PGVE (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Deep AC is more common in eyes with extensive vitreous removal during PHACO than ECCE. Decreasing the bottle height is advised in this case. Except for this, the results of ECCE and PHACO are similar in previously vitrectomized eyes. Posterior synechiaes, primary and postoperative PCO and RD are more common in vitrectomized eyes than the controls.

Long-term outcomes of heavy silicone oil tamponade for complicated retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To assess the long-term success rates and complications of heavy silicone oil tamponade (Oxane HD) in the management of complicated retinal detachment with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR).

METHODS

Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients with complicated retinal detachment and PVR were included in this study. Vitreoretinal surgery with heavy silicone oil (Oxane HD) tamponade was performed in all patients. Heavy silicone oil was injected by perfluorocarbon liquid-air-silicone oil exchange, and was removed after 3 months. The main outcomes of the surgery including the success and complication rates were evaluated during the mean follow-up period of 11.4+/-0.88 months. Wilcoxon signed ranks test was used for statistical analysis of visual acuity changes. The outcomes of our study were compared with those of the previous studies.

RESULTS

All eyes had complicated retinal detachment with PVR Grade C3 or worse. Retinal detachment was rhegmatogenous in 6 eyes, secondary to previous detachment surgery in 11 eyes, secondary to proliferative diabetic retinopathy in 3 eyes, and secondary to perforating eye injury in 1 eye. The overall anatomic success rate was 80.9% at the end of the follow-up period. The overall visual success rate was 42.8%, with no statistically significant difference from baseline (p>0.05). Postoperative complications included severe reproliferation (4 eyes), intraocular pressure rise (3 eyes), anterior dislocation of silicone oil (2 eyes), posterior subcapsular cataract formation (4 eyes), vitreous hemorrhage (1 eye), rubeosis iridis (3 eyes), optic atrophy (1 eye), and ocular pain and photophobia (21 eyes).

CONCLUSIONS

According to the results of this study, vitreoretinal surgery with temporary heavy silicone oil tamponade appears to increase the anatomic success rates with minimal complication rate in cases with complicated retinal detachment and PVR.

Postoperative granuloma after stapedectomy: is it destiny or avoidable?

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were (1) to investigate the pathophysiological characteristics of the middle ear mucoperiosteum against the caustic nature of the gastric content (GC), which consists largely of acid and pepsin components, and (2) to investigate the possible role of gastroesophageal reflux and postoperative vomiting (POV) in the etiology of poststapedectomy granuloma.

METHODS

40 Spraque-Dawley rats of either sex and with a body weight of 200-300 g were used, and divided into different study groups: group 1: GC administration to the middle ear (n = 8); group 2: phosphate-buffered saline administration to the middle ear (n = 8); group 3: GC (pH: 2) administration in the presence of a Teflon piston (TP) (n = 6); group 4: phosphate-buffered saline administration in the presence of a TP (n = 6); group 5: GC administration in the presence of a wired piston (WP) (n = 6); group 6: phosphate- buffered saline administration in the presence of a WP (n = 6). GC was administrated to the middle ear cavities by way of the eustachian tube (ET). In order to overcome the pressure of the ET, a pump mechanism was used. The increased nasopharyngeal pressure caused a passive opening of the ET, and transferred a bolus to the middle ear. The animals were decapitated after 1 week, and the bullae were isolated. The tympanic bullae were serially cut and examined with light microscopy.

RESULTS

In the saline controls, there was only a mild amount of polymorphonuclear cell (PMN) infiltration in the mildly thickened subepithelial space, indicating a less pronounced inflammation as compared to the gastric acid group. In the GC group, in addition to focal hemorrhage and severe subepithelial infiltration of PMNs, the middle ear mucosa was dramatically thickened with subepithelial edema and dilated capillaries. In the subepithelial tissue, retention cysts and granulation tissue were present. In the piston groups (TP and WP), there was extensive subepithelial inflammation and edema after GC and saline administrations. Granulation tissue filling the entire bulla around the piston segments was detected.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between the administration of GC and middle ear inflammation, and the possible role of POV in the etiology of poststapedectomy granuloma are emphasized with our experimental study. The length of the TP may be considerably important to prevent POV which may lead to gastric reflux to the middle ear.

A possible link between the pseudoexfoliation syndrome and coronary artery disease

PURPOSE

This is a collaborative case-control study from Ophthalmology and Cardiology departments of a tertiary care hospital, designed to explore the relationship between coronary artery disease (CAD) and pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX).

METHOD

In all, 50 patients with CAD proven by coronary angiography, and 50 controls with normal coronary angiographic findings were compared in terms of PEX, other vascular diseases, and retinal vascular findings. chi2-test and Student's t-test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The number of patients with PEX among CAD (+) patients was substantially larger than controls. In all, 28 of 50 CAD (+) patients and only 12 of 50 CAD (-) patients had PEX. PEX was significantly associated with CAD (P=0.001). When all patients were regrouped according to the presence of PEX, patients with PEX did not differ from patients without PEX in terms of age (P=0.360) and sex (P=0.507), but the prevalence of CAD was higher (P=0.001) and fundoscopic findings of vascular diseases were significantly more prominent (P=0.0001) in PEX (+) patients.

DISCUSSION

We demonstrated statistically significant difference in the prevalence of PEX in CAD patients, and also in the prevalence of CAD in PEX (+) individuals. These were striking differences. We should consider the possibility of the presence of PEX in CAD patients; and the predisposition of PEX (+) persons for CAD, which necessitates a fundus examination for findings of systemic vascular diseases.

Normative findings of electrically evoked compound action potential measurements using the neural response telemetry of the Nucleus CI24M cochlear implant system

One hundred and forty-seven adult recipients of the Nucleus 24 cochlear implant system, from 13 different European countries, were tested using neural response telemetry to measure the electrically evoked compound action potential (ECAP), according to a standardised postoperative measurement procedure. Recordings were obtained in 96% of these subjects with this standardised procedure. The group results are presented in terms of peak amplitude and latency, slope of the amplitude growth function and ECAP threshold. The effects of aetiological factors and the duration of deafness on the ECAP were also studied. While large intersubject variability and intrasubject variability (across electrodes) were found, results fell within a consistent pattern and a normative range of peak amplitudes and latencies was established. The aetiological factors had little effect on the ECAP characteristics. However, age affected ECAP amplitude and slope of the amplitude growth function significantly; i.e., the amplitude is higher in the lowest age category (15-30 years). Principal component analysis of the ECAP thresholds shows that the thresholds across 5 electrodes can be described by two factors accounting for 92% of the total variance. The two factors represent the overall level of the threshold profiles ('shift') and their slopes across the electrode array ('tilt'). Correlation between these two factors and the same factors describing the T- and C-levels appeared to be moderate, in the range of 0.5-0.6.

Clinical importance of supratubal recess in cholesteatoma surgery

OBJECTIVE

To determine the importance of supratubal recess in cholesteatoma surgery by presenting the clinical presentation, imaging findings, and surgical treatment methods of 66 patients with cholesteatoma. We propose that the management of supratubal recess allows the opportunity for total removal of the cholesteatoma with the prevention of recurrence.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective review of surgical cases.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

INTERVENTIONS

Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures were performed.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We present a series of patients with involvement of supratubal recess by reviewing the operative charts of 347 patients surgically treated for aural cholesteatoma between 1990 and 1999.

RESULTS

We detected the involvement of supratubal recess in 19% (n = 66) of our operations for aural cholesteatoma removal.

CONCLUSION

The intent of this study is to improve the chance for a successful outcome by decreasing the rate of recurrence. The surgical approach to supratubal recess in cholesteatoma operations is emphasized with our series.

Management of traumatic retinal detachment with vitreon in children

PURPOSE

To report the use of perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene (vitreon) for traumatic retinal detachment in children.

METHODS

Vitreon was used as an intraoperative adjunct in 34 children with complicated retinal detachment secondary to penetrating and perforating trauma. The characteristics of the injuries, the final visual acuities, the postoperative complications and the rate of anatomic success were evaluated in a retrospective study.

RESULTS

Patients were followed-up an average of 20 months. Eighteen retinas (53%) were reattached, and the postoperative visual acuity was counting fingers or better in 9 cases (26%), and only 4 eyes saw better than 10/200 at last follow-up. Hypotony developed in 7 (21%) of 34 eyes.

CONCLUSION

Management of traumatic retinal detachment in children is difficult. Vitreon, as other perfluorocarbons, may be an effective intraoperative tool for vitreoretinal surgery in pediatric eyes that suffer trauma.

Comparison of subretinal fluid levels of two 0.3% ciprofloxacin-containing eye drops

PURPOSE

Two ophthalmic solutions of 0.3% ciprofloxacin eye drops are available in Turkey: Ciloxan and Siprogut. A previous study by the same authors was the first to report vitreous penetration of ciprofloxacin-containing eye drops. The aim of the present study was to compare the levels of drug found in the subretinal fluid by the two products following local administration.

METHODS

Forty-three patients undergoing conventional retinal detachment surgery received either Ciloxan (22 patients) or Siprogut (21 patients). Beginning 6 h before surgery, two drops of solution were instilled onto the operative eye every 30 min for the first 3 h and then hourly for the next 3 h. Subretinal fluid samples were collected 30 min after administration of the last dose and were assayed for ciprofloxacin levels using a method involving high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorometric detection.

RESULTS

The minimum and maximum subretinal fluid concentrations measured were 0.11 microg/mL and 0.65 microg/mL, respectively, with Ciloxan, and 0.08 microg/mL and 0.62 microg/mL, respectively wth Siprogut. There was no statistical difference between the subretinal fluid ciprofloxacin levels of the two products. The subretinal fluid drug evels attained by both products were below the minimum inhibitory concentrations of common ocular pathogens.

CONCLUSIONS

Ciloxan and Siprogut can penetrate subretinal fluid. The ocular bioavailability of ciprofloxacin after local administration is equivalent for both pharmaceutical products.

The effect of endoscopic sinus surgery on mucociliary activity and healing of maxillary sinus mucosa

The aim of this study was to determine histologic findings in the maxilaarysinus mucosa by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and ciliary activity within the nasal cavity by measuring the speed of mucociliary transport and after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Thirty patients were enrolled. Thirty-eight antral mucosae of 24 24 patients were investigated according to ultrastructural changes and 6 patients were accepted as controls. At the 12th week, 12 antral nasal mucosae specimens of 8 patients were evaluated. All the specimens were taken from the medial rear wall of the antrum. The specimens were observed under a SEM and TEM. The mucociliary activity was measured within the nasal cavity by a saccharin test in all patients before the operation and after 12 weeks. Twenty people served as controls. In the specimens of the preoperative mucosa, the ciliated epithelium was heavily deciliated, interdigitation of the cell was loosened. In the samples taken 12 weeks after the operation, the ciliated cells were irregularly seen, the number of goblet cells was about the same as in the preoperative group and in the control, the number of the gland openings was higher than in the preoperative group and in the control. Also the interdigitation of the cells was enhanced. The histological and morphological features of the mucosa had improved. The period of the preoperative saccharin test was 12.15 minutes, whereas the period of the postoperative test was 9.08 minutes. The improvement was significant but both results were also significantly longer compared to the controls. These observations suggest that the histological, morphological and mucocilliary activity of the mucosa have not yet improved completely, it takes more than 12 weeks to recover, and the patients should be closely monitored in the postoperative months.

Subretinal fluid levels of topical, oral, and combined administered ciprofloxacin in humans

AIMS

To investigate the subretinal fluid (SRF) penetration of ciprofloxacin following topical, oral, and combined administration.

METHODS

34 patients undergoing conventional retinal reattachment surgery were randomly assigned to three groups. Twelve patients received topical ciprofloxacin, 11 patients received oral ciprofloxacin, and the other 11 patients received combined drug administration. SRF drug level was measured by using high performance liquid chromatography method.

RESULTS

The highest drug concentrations of all tested modes were attained following combined administration and lowest following topical administration (p<0.001). The SRF drug concentration following oral administration was also significantly higher than that of topical administration (p<0.001). Concentrations after oral and combined administration did not differ significantly (p = 0.217).

CONCLUSIONS

Topical ciprofloxacin can penetrate SRF. Ocular bioavailability of ciprofloxacin in SRF after oral and combined administration is equivalent.

Combined phacoemulsification, vitrectomy, foreign-body extraction, and intraocular lens implantation

PURPOSE

To assess the outcome of simultaneous phacoemulsification, pars plana vitrectomy, intraocular foreign-body extraction, and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

SETTING

SSK Ankara Eye Hospital, Department of Vitreoretinal Surgery, Ankara, Turkey.

METHODS

Seventeen patients with corneal perforation, intraocular foreign body, vitreous hemorrhage, and lens opacity had simultaneous clear corneal phacoemulsification, pars plana vitrectomy, intraocular foreign-body extraction, and IOL implantation.

RESULTS

Postoperative complications included massive retinal fibrosis in 2 patients, retinal detachment in 1, and cilioretinal artery occlusion in 1. At a mean follow-up of 15.2 months, best corrected visual acuity improved in the remaining 13 eyes (76%). The IOL was stable in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Combined phacoemulsification with IOL implantation and vitreoretinal surgery was safe in selected cases of penetrating ocular trauma resulting from an intraocular foreign body.

Intraocular pressure changes in the vitreon study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To detect the effect of Perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene (vitreon) on intraocular pressure (IOP) changes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

One hundred-five eyes with proliferative vitreoretinopathy undergoing vitrectomy using vitreon as an intraoperative surgical adjunct were randomized to 2 groups. Vitreon was completely removed in 43 eyes (Group A) at the end of operation while it was left intravitreally in 62 eyes (Group B) for 4 weeks. Patients were followed for at least 18 months.

RESULTS

During the first postoperative week, 6 eyes (14%) in Group A and 14 eyes (22%) in Group B had IOP of 23 mm Hg or more (P = .393) while no eyes in either group had hypotony. At the last follow-up 2 eyes (5%) in Group A and 6 eyes (10%) in Group B showed chronic hypotony (P = .561).

CONCLUSION

Although postoperative chronic hypotony risk increased twofold by vitreon when it was left intravitreally for 4 weeks, this difference was statistically insignificant. Vitreon can be used as a vitreous substitute for 4 weeks in this regard.

Aqueous humour levels of topically applied ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin in the same subjects

PURPOSE

To evaluate aqueous humour levels of topical 0.3% ciprofloxacin and 0.3% ofloxacin in the same subjects.

METHODS

Thirty-two bilateral cataractous patients received topical 0.3% ciprofloxacin in one eye and 0.3% ofloxacin in the other eye before each cataract extraction. Eyedrops were repetitively instilled for 6 h. Aqueous humour samples were collected and assayed for drug concentrations by a method described originally by us using high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Mean aqueous ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin levels were 0.33 +/- 0.04 microgram/ml (mean +/- SEM) and 1.34 +/- 0.14 micrograms/ml respectively (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Ofloxacin level in the aqueous humour is 4 times higher than that of ciprofloxacin in the same subjects.

Penetration of topical, oral, and combined administered ofloxacin into the subretinal fluid

AIMS

To assess the subretinal fluid (SRF) levels of ofloxacin following topical, oral or combined administration.

METHODS

31 patients undergoing conventional retinal reattachment surgery were randomly assigned to three groups. Nine patients received topical ofloxacin, 11 patients received oral ofloxacin, and the other 11 patients received combined administration. Collected SRF samples were analysed for drug level by using high performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

SRF drug levels after oral and combined administration were significantly higher than that after topical administration (p=0.0002 and p=0.0002, respectively) while there was no significant difference between oral and combined administration (p=0.0844).

CONCLUSIONS

Ocular bioavailability of ofloxacin in SRF after oral and combined administration is equivalent. The addition of oral ofloxacin to topical therapy increased drug SRF penetration sixfold.

Human aqueous and vitreous humour levels of ciprofloxacin following oral and topical administration

PURPOSE

To assess aqueous and vitreous humour ciprofloxacin concentrations following oral and topical administration of ciprofloxacin in patients with non-inflamed cornea and an intact crystalline lens, and to compare the concentrations of the drug given by either route.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 34 patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy for various ocular pathologies were divided into two groups. Eighteen patients received 2 drops of 0.3% ophthalmic solution of ciprofloxacin every 30 min for 3 h and then every 60 min for the next 3 h, and 16 patients received a single oral dose of 1000 mg ciprofloxacin 6 h before surgery. The aqueous and vitreous humour samples were simultaneously harvested after oral or topical administration during pars plana vitrectomy to assess penetration of the drug. These samples were assayed for ciprofloxacin concentrations by a method described previously by us using high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The aqueous and vitreous humour levels of ciprofloxacin were 0.59 +/- 0.06 microgram/ml (mean +/- SEM) and 0.64 +/- 0.06 microgram/ml after oral and 0.44 +/- 0.07 microgram/ml and 0.22 +/- 0.04 microgram/ml after topical ciprofloxacin administration, respectively. Aqueous humour levels were not statistically significantly different following oral and topical administration (p = 0.069). However, the vitreous level of the drug after oral administration was significantly higher than that after topical administration (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Ocular bioavailability of ciprofloxacin in aqueous humour following oral and topical administration is found to be similar when the drug was applied as described above. Penetration of ciprofloxacin into vitreous humour is less than that into aqueous humour after topical administration.

Vitrectomy with silicone oil or long-acting gas in eyes with giant retinal tears: long-term follow-up of a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

To determine if either silicone oil or perfluoropropane (C3F8) gas is superior to the other in the treatment of giant retinal tears complicated by proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

METHODS

Forty-seven eyes with giant retinal tears were treated in a prospective randomized fashion. Twenty-two eyes were randomized to C3F8 gas and 25 eyes were randomized to silicone oil. Follow-up of 60 months is reported. Of the silicone oil-treated eyes, 9 had oil retained in the eye; oil was removed from the remaining 16 eyes. Successful anatomic attachment of the retina, final visual acuity, and surgical complications were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

There were no differences between the groups in any of the main outcome measures.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that silicone oil and C3F8 gas are equal in most respects for the management of giant retinal tears with proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

Penetration of ofloxacin and ciprofloxacin in aqueous humor after topical administration

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To compare the aqueous humor levels of 0.3% ofloxacin and 0.3% ciprofloxacin containing eyedrops in patients with healthy cornea.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty patients with cataract were randomly assigned to have 0.3% ofloxacin containing eyedrop (25 patients) or 0.3% ciprofloxacin containing eyedrop (25 patients). Both drugs were repetitively instilled to each patient for 6 hours before the surgery. Aqueous samples were collected after penetrating the anterior chamber during cataract extraction and assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography method.

RESULTS

The aqueous humor level of ofloxacin (1.43 +/- 0.26 microg/ml, mean +/- SEM) was significantly higher than that of ciprofloxacin (0.35 +/- 0.07 microg/ml) following the topical application (P < .0002).

CONCLUSION

Aqueous humor penetration of topical ofloxacin is about 4 times higher than that of topical ciprofloxacin when the drugs are applied as described above.

Effect of intracameral carbachol on intraocular pressure following clear corneal phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of 0.01% carbachol on early intraocular pressure (IOP) after cataract extraction with phacoemulsification.

METHODS

Fifty-one patients who underwent cataract extraction with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation were prospectively randomly assigned to one of two groups. Twenty-seven patients were given 0.5 ml carbachol intracamerally (carbachol group); the other 24 patients were given the same amount of balanced salt solution intracamerally (control group). IOPs were measured by Goldmann applantation tonometry on the day before surgery, and at 8 h, 24 h and 7 days post-operatively.

RESULTS

There was no difference between the mean IOPs of the groups pre-operatively (p > 0.5). All the mean post-operative IOP values of the carbachol group were lower than those of the control group. At 8 and 24 h post-operatively the mean IOP was 12.4 +/- 3.4 mmHg and 13.1 +/- 4.5 mmHg respectively in the carbachol group, 19.4 +/- 6.4 mmHg and 17.2 +/- 4.2 mmHg respectively in the control group. The differences were significant (p < 0.04 and p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the values at 7 days post-operatively (p > 0.8). An IOP greater than 25 mmHg was recorded at 8 h and 24 h post-operatively in 8 (33%) and 4 (17%) of the control group and in 1 (4%) and 1 (4%) of the carbachol group. All the IOPs were 20 mmHg or lower in both groups at 7 days post-operatively.

CONCLUSION

Patients treated with intracameral carbachol following uncomplicated clear corneal phacoemulsification and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation demonstrate lower early post-operative IOP.

Effect of capsulorhexis size on postoperative intraocular pressure

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether capsulorhexis diameter has an effect on intraocular pressure (IOP) after phacoemulsification.

SETTING

SSK Ankara Eye Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.

METHODS

This prospective study comprised 58 patients selected for cataract extraction by phacoemulsification using a 5.2 mm temporal, clear corneal incision. Twenty-nine of 58 patients had a 4.0 mm capsulorhexis and the rest, 6.0 mm. All patients received a multipiece poly(methyl methacrylate) posterior chamber intraocular lens with a 5.0 mm diameter bioconvex optic and flexible haptics. Follow-up was 3 months. Postoperative IOP was obtained by Goldmann applanation tonometry 1 and 2 days before surgery and 1 and 7 days and 1, 2, and 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

A significant decrease in IOP was observed in both the 4.0 and 6.0 mm capsulorhexis groups 1 day postoperatively (P < .0001 and P < .0001, respectively). At 3 months postoperatively, IOP decreased significantly over preoperative values both in the 4.0 mm (P < .0001) and 6.0 mm capsulorhexis (P = .0014) groups. There was a statistical difference between the mean 1 month IOP values in the 4.0 mm (11.34 +/- 2.18 mm Hg [SD]) and 6.0 mm capsulorhexis (13.00 +/- 2.30 mm Hg) groups (P = .0059). A statistical difference between the groups also existed at 3 months postoperatively (P = .0028).

CONCLUSION

A 4.0 mm capsulorhexis resulted in lower postoperative IOP than a 6.0 mm capsulorhexis 1 month postoperatively.

The relationship between capsulorhexis size and anterior chamber depth relation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the diameter of the capsulorhexis has an effect on anterior chamber depth (ACD) following phacoemulsification surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty-one consecutive patients were selected for cataract extraction by phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Twenty-two of 51 patients underwent 4 mm capsulorhexis, while the rest underwent 6 mm. All were implanted with a multi-piece polymethyl methacrylate posterior chamber IOL with 5.0 mm diameter biconvex optic and flexible haptic. They were followed 3 months postoperatively. The width of the capsulorhexis was assured according to the IOL optic implanted intraoperatively, and by the help of slit-lamp measurement after dilatation of the pupil on the first postoperative day. ACD and axial length (AL) of patients was obtained by ultrasonography on both the days before surgery, and the first and seventh postoperative days, and after 30, 60 and 90 days.

RESULTS

Early significant increase of ACD and ACD/AL ratios were observed in only the 6 mm capsulorhexis group on the first day postoperatively (P = .012, and P = .018). On the 90th postoperative day, ACD increased significantly both in the 4 mm (P = .002) and the 6 mm capsulorhexis groups (P = .049) when compared to preoperative values. For the same period, meaningful increase in ACD/AL ratio in the eyes with both 4 mm and 6 mm capsulorhexis groups was also noted compared with preoperatively (P = .002 and P = .019). There was a statistical difference between the 90th day ACD values of 4 mm (3.73 +/- 0.32 mm, mean +/- standard deviation) and 6 mm capsulorhexis groups (3.50 +/- 0.33 mm) (P = .028). For the same period, ACD/AL ratio was also significantly different for both groups (0.152 +/- 0.01, and 0.142 +/- 0.01 respectively) (P = .004). The refractive error changes followed the ACD changes and showed meaningful differences between 1st and 90th days postoperative values of each group (P = .029, and P = .014, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A 4 mm capsulorhexis results in a longer postoperative ACD than does a 6 mm capsulorhexis for the IOL type used in this study.

Penetration of ofloxacin in human aqueous and vitreous humors following oral and topical administration

PURPOSE

To determine aqueous and vitreous humor ofloxacin levels following oral and topical application of ofloxacin in patients with noninflamed cornea and intact crystalline lens, and to compare the drug levels provided by each route.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-six patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy for various ocular pathologies were divided into two groups. Fourteen patients received two drops of 0.3% ophthalmic solution of ofloxacin every 30 minutes for 3 hours and every 60 minutes for the next 3 hours, and 12 patients received a single oral dose of 400 mg ofloxacin 8 hours before surgery. The aqueous and vitreous humor samples were simultaneously collected after oral or topical administration during pars plana vitrectomy to assess penetration of the drug. Samples were assayed for ofloxacin concentrations by a previously described method using high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

The aqueous and vitreous humor levels of ofloxacin were 1.54 +/- 0.27 microg/mL (mean +/- standard error) and 1.77 +/- 0.24 microg/mL after oral and 1.44 +/- 0.24 microg/mL and 0.37 +/- 0.05 microg/mL after topical ofloxacin administration, respectively. Aqueous humor levels were not statistically different following oral or topical administration (P > 0.8). However, vitreous level of the drug after oral administration was significantly higher than that after topical administration (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Ocular bioavailability of ofloxacin in aqueous humor after oral and topical administration is similar when the drug is applied as described. Penetration of ofloxacin into vitreous humor is less than that into aqueous humor following topical application. The aqueous humor levels of ofloxacin via both routes and the vitreous level of the drug after oral route exceed the minimum inhibitory concentrations for certain bacterial species that frequently cause intraocular infection.

Comparison of aqueous humour and vitreous humour levels of two 0.3% ciprofloxacin eyedrops

BACKGROUND

Two ophthalmic solutions of 0.3% ciprofloxacin eyedrops are available in Turkey: Ciloxan and Siprogut. The objective of this study was to compare the concentrations of drug produced by the two products in the aqueous humour and vitreous humour after local administration.

METHODS

Twenty-one patients undergoing primary vitreoretinal surgery received either Ciloxan (10 patients) or Siprogut (11 patients). Six hours before surgery, two drops of solution were instilled onto the operative eye. Drops were then instilled every 30 minutes for the first 3 hours and then hourly for the next 3 hours. Aqueous and vitreous samples were collected 30 minutes after administration of the last dose and were assayed for ciprofloxacin concentration by means of high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorometric detection.

RESULTS

The mean aqueous humour concentrations of Ciloxan and Siprogut were 0.36 (standard error of the mean [SEM] 0.09) microgram/mL and 0.44 (SEM 0.17) microgram/mL respectively. The corresponding vitreous humour concentrations were 0.21 (SEM 0.05) microgram/mL and 0.22 (SEM 0.06) microgram/mL. Neither of these differences was statistically significant. The aqueous and vitreous levels of both products exceeded the minimum inhibitory concentrations for certain bacterial species that frequently cause intraocular infections.

INTERPRETATION

Our results show that the ocular bioavailability of Ciloxan and Siprogut after local administration is equivalent. Penetration of ciprofloxacin into the vitreous humour seems to be poorer than that into the aqueous humour.

The use of perfluorodecalin in retinal detachments with retinoschisis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of perfluorodecalin on the repair of retinal detachments with retinoschisis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-two eyes of 20 patients with degenerative and X-linked retinoschisis underwent pars plana vitrectomy, perfluorodecalin injection, internal fluid drainage, and fluid-air exchange.

RESULTS

The retina was reattached intraoperatively in 21 (95.4%) of the 22 eyes. In 4 eyes, retinal detachment recurred within 2 months postoperatively. All of the recurrent cases underwent reoperation with perfluoropropane gas and the retina was reattached at the end of 2 operations. As a result, visual acuity increased in 18 (81.8%) of the 22 eyes.

CONCLUSION

Perfluorodecalin makes flattening of the retina and evacuation of subretinal fluid easier in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments associated with degenerative and X-linked retinoschisis.

Changes in anterior chamber depth and intraocular pressure after phacoemulsification and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To determine anterior chamber depth (ACD) and intraocular pressure (IOP) following uncomplicated cataract extraction with phacoemulsification and posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The ACDs and IOPs of 56 patients were prospectively evaluated after phacoemulsification and IOL implantation. Measurements of ACD were performed using ultrasonography and measurements of IOP were performed using a Goldmann applanation tonometer preoperatively and at 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 9 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The mean IOP had decreased and the mean ACD had increased significantly by 1 month postoperatively (P < .03 and P < .01, respectively). Between 1 and 3 months, a significant increase in ACD (P < .05) and decrease in IOP (P < .01) was also observed. The ACD peaked (3.51 +/- 0.45 mm) and the IOP reached its lowest value (10.05 +/- 2.23 mm Hg) at 3 months postoperatively. The reduction in IOP and increase in ACD remained significant during the follow-up period, compared with the preoperative values.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that increases in ACD and decreases in IOP occur in selected patients after uncomplicated cataract extraction by phacoemulsification with IOL implantation.

Effects of the long-term use of perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene on the retina

Perfluorocarbon liquids have gained wide acceptance as intraoperative tools that can simplify vitreoretinal surgical maneuvers. These low-viscosity liquids facilitate injection into the eye and removal from the eye during surgery. Tolerance to perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene and the development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy with its extended use are not clear. The authors present the clinical and histologic findings of a patient, previously lost to follow-up, who was examined after several weeks of intraocular tamponade with perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene. Damage to the retina was seen in response to the long-term postoperative use of perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene.

Treatment of chronic ear disease. Topical ciprofloxacin vs topical gentamicin

OBJECTIVE

To determine and compare the therapeutic efficiency of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride and gentamicin sulfate in the treatment of chronic ear disease.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized study.

SETTING

Academic tertiary medical center.

PATIENTS

Consecutive referred sample of 44 patients with chronic suppurative otitis media randomized into two groups.

INTERVENTIONS

Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (200 mg/mL) was administered to the first group (composed of 24 patients), while the second group (composed of 20 patients) received gentamicin sulfate (5 mg/mL) locally, five drops three times a day for 10 days.

RESULTS

In the ciprofloxacin group, 21 (88%) of the 24 patients with suppurative chronic otitis media were cured. On the other hand, only six (30%) of the patients in the gentamicin group were cured. The rest of the patients showed no clinical or bacteriological improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare the efficiency of two topical otic preparations in the treatment of chronic ear disease. The results show that topical ciprofloxacin preparation is more efficacious and efficient than topical gentamicin for the treatment of chronic otitis media in the acute stage.

A case of Merkel cell carcinoma with parotid lymph node metastasis

We report a case of Merkel cell carcinoma with parotid lymph node metastasis. The pathology, clinical appearance and management of this rare tumor are discussed.

Squamous epithelium in the middle ear and sinus

This study has been performed between December 1990-March 1991 in the Microsurgery laboratory of the Marmara University Hospital. Twelve healthy albino guinea pigs were used as a study group while the control group consists of three animals. The potentials for cholesteatoma formation of the squamous epithelium, namely the squamous epithelium of the posterior superior part of the external ear canal skin and normal skin, were investigated. Among 24 subjects who were implanted by canal skin, cholesteatoma was formed in 21 of them. Likewise, 19 of 24 animals implanted by normal skin came out with cholesteatoma formation. Between these two types of epithelium, there is no statistical difference in cholesteatoma formation (p > 0.5).