The influence of corneal tunnel length on surgically induced astigmatism after various types of microincision phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of the corneal tunnel length on surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after 3 phacoemulsification techniques.

METHODS

Patients who underwent a planned phacoemulsification surgery with an implantation of a foldable, acrylic IOL were selected for the study. All surgeries were performed under topical anaesthesia, with the same phaco machine. Group I consisted of 30 eyes of 30 patients after bimanual 1.4 mm microincision cataract surgery (B-MICS). Group II consisted of 30 eyes of 30 patients after coaxial 1.8 mm microincision cataract surgery (C-MICS). Group III consisted of 30 eyes of 30 patients after coaxial 2.4 mm small incision cataract surgery (C-SICS).Best corrected visual acuity, autorefractometry, tonometry, a slit lamp examination and anterior segment OCT were performed preoperatively and 1, 7, 30 and 90 days postoperatively. The temporal peripheral corneal thickness and the chord length of the main incision were measured. Vector method was used to calculate SIA.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative BCVA was 0.52 ± 0.19 and it improved to 0.98 ± 0.05 (p < 0.05). Mean corneal tunnel chord length was 1.30 ± 0.16 mm 90 days postoperatively in group I, 1.30 ± 0.19 mm in group II and 1.48 ± 0.22 mm in group III. SIA was 0.54 ± 0.48 mm in group I, 0.45 ± 0.21 mm in group II and 0.62 ± 0.30 mm in group III. There were no correlations between the chord length of the corneal tunnel and SIA calculated with using vector analysis method.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike the incision width, the length of the clear corneal tunnel in small incisions and microinicions, has no significant influence on SIA.

Pupil diameter during cataract surgery after intracameral injection of the first ready-to-use combination of mydriatics and anaesthetic at the beginning of surgery in patients with a preoperative pupil diameter <6 mm

PURPOSE

We evaluated, in a real-life setting, the effect of Mydrane® (ready-to-use combination of tropicamide, phenylephrine hydrochloride and lidocaine, injected into the anterior chamber at the beginning of cataract surgery to induce mydriasis and intraocular anaesthesia) on the pupil diameter during cataract surgery in patients with a preoperative pupil diameter <6 mm after the use of topical mydriatics.

METHODS

We collected and analysed the data of 59 consecutive patients whose pupils dilated to a diameter <6 mm after the administration of mydriatic eye drops during the preoperative visit and who received Mydrane® during cataract surgery.

RESULTS

In the group of 59 patients with a preoperative pupil diameter <6 mm after topical mydriatics, cataract surgery was performed in 36 patients (61.0%) using only Mydrane® to obtain mydriasis, with no additional drug or medical device. The mean pupil diameters in this group (36 of 59) during the preoperative assessment after topical mydriatics and just before capsulorhexis when Mydrane® was injected during surgery were 5.1 ± 0.74 and 6.15 ± 1.14 mm. Additional drugs were used in 23 patients (39%). In this group, the mean pupil diameters after topical mydriatics and just before capsulorhexis using Mydrane® were 4.58 ± 1.06 and 5.6 ± 1.26 mm, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In a real-life setting, the mean pupil diameter achieved during cataract surgery after the intracameral injection of Mydrane® in patients with a preoperative pupil diameter <6 mm was over 1 mm larger than the mean pupil diameter after topical mydriatics, despite the trauma caused by the operation.

Dry eye in Sjögren's syndrome - characteristics and therapy

BACKGROUND

Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease, and its important feature is the lymphocyte infiltration of exocrine glands, including lacrimal glands. It contributes to defects of their activity and causes that one of the main manifestation of Sjögren's syndrome is dry eye. Unfortunately, the discrimination between dry eye related and non-related to Sjögren's syndrome is difficult at the initial stages of diseases. In addition, the available agents for the treatment of Sjögren's syndrome-related dry eye have limited efficacy.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to describe and emphasize differences between Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye and non-Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye together with the determination of novel therapeutic options for Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye.

METHOD

A review of the relevant papers describing characteristics of Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye and its therapy was conducted. This article is based on both pre-clinical and clinical evidences.

RESULTS

On the basis of our analysis, we indicated differences between Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye and non-Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye. Moreover, there are some novel markers that could be used in the diagnosis of Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye. In addition, expect artificial tear, other agents e.g. hydroxychloroquine can be effective in therapy of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye is a disorder, whose diagnosis may be difficult and mistaken for non-Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye. However, Sjögren's Syndrome-related dry eye has some specific features. In addition, the development of newer and safer therapeutic agents for Sjögren's syndrome-related dry eye is needed, and therefore further clinical, randomized studies are necessary.

Optical Coherence Tomography in the Differential Diagnosis of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Patients with MRI Nonspecific White Matter Lesions

In the differential diagnosis of nonspecific white matter lesions (NSWMLs) detected on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), multiple sclerosis (MS) should be taken into consideration. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a promising tool applied in the differential diagnostic process of MS. We tested whether OCT may be useful in distinguishing between MS and NSWMLs patients. In patients with MS (n = 41) and NSWMLs (n = 19), the following OCT parameters were measured: thickness of the peripapillary Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer (pRNFL) in superior, inferior, nasal, and temporal segments; thickness of the ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL); thickness of macular RNFL (mRNFL); and macular volume (MV). In MS patients, GCIPL was significantly lower than in NSWMLs patients (p = 0.024). Additionally, in MS patients, mRNFL was significantly lower than in NSWMLs patients (p = 0.030). The average segmental pRNFL and MV did not differ between MS and NSWMLs patients (p > 0.05). GCIPL and macular RNFL thinning significantly influenced the risk of MS (18.6% [95% CI 2.7%, 25.3%]; 27.4% [95% CI 4.5%, 62.3%]), and reduced GCIPL thickness appeared to be the best predictor of MS. We conclude that OCT may be helpful in the differential diagnosis of MS and NSWMLs patients in real-world settings.

Stable Mydriasis After Intracameral Injection of a Combination of Mydriatics and Anesthetic During Cataract Surgery: A Real-Life, Multicenter Study

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of Mydrane (contains tropicamide, phenylephrine hydrochloride, and lidocaine hydrochloride) on time needed to induce mydriasis and mydriasis stability during cataract surgery. Methods: This was an observational, non-interventional, multicenter study of patients undergoing cataract surgery who received Mydrane for mydriasis and intraocular anesthesia. The study was conducted at seven ophthalmology departments at university hospitals in Poland. Patients admitted for cataract surgery within a 2-week period were asked to participate in the study. Patients whose pupils dilated to a diameter ≥6 mm after topical mydriatic administration during preoperative examinations were scheduled to receive Mydrane and included in the registry. No additional inclusion criteria were used. Patients' medical histories, examination results, and operative details were recorded. Pupil diameter was measured during surgery. Surgeons were asked to complete a Likert-based survey in parallel. Results: A total of 307 patients were enrolled. The mean pupil diameter was 7.0 ± 1.0 mm before capsulorhexis and 6.9 ± 1.2 mm before lens implementation. A pupil diameter ≥6 mm was achieved in 91.9% and 87.6% of patients before capsulorhexis and lens implantation, respectively. We asked 58 surgeons whether they agreed with the statement "Mydriasis was obtained in a short time after the administration of Mydrane"; the surgeons agreed with this statement after 92.2% (283/307) of surgeries. In addition, after 88.2% of surgeries, the surgeons agreed with the statement "Mydriasis was stable after the administration of Mydrane." Conclusions: Mydriasis was rapidly and stably obtained after Mydrane injection, as demonstrated by pupil diameter measurements during surgery and surgeons' feedback.

Transscleral Suture Fixation and Anterior Chamber Intraocular Lenses Implanted after Removal of Posteriorly Dislocated Crystalline Lenses

The surgical technique is described for simultaneous removal of posteriorly dislocated crystalline lenses and implantation of anterior chamber (AC) or scleral fixation posterior chamber (PC) intraocular lenses (IOL) using pars plana vitrectomy. Twenty-two patients underwent this complex operation. Observation time ranged from 2 to 10 months (mean 5 months). Best-corrected post-operative visual acuity was 1.0 in half the patients in the AC group (n=12), and in 80% of the PC group (n=10). It was less than 0.5 in 25% of cases in the AC group whereas all PC patients had visual acuity 0.5 or better. In nine cases with pre-operative ocular hypertension, post-operative intraocular pressure became normal, although topical glaucoma therapy was necessary in three patients in the AC group and in one from the PC group. No severe complications were found. Removal of posteriorly dislocated crystalline lens using pars plana vitrectomy and limbal incision is a safe procedure. Simultaneous AC or transscleral PC lens implantation is a good alternative to contact lenses. Visual rehabilitation was good in both groups of patients, although post-operative visual acuity was better after PC transscleral fixation than after AC surgery.

Evaluation of Early Corneal Endothelial Cell Loss in Bimanual Microincision Cataract Surgery (MICS) in Comparison with Standard Phacoemulsification

PURPOSE

To analyze early corneal endothelial cell loss due to microincision cataract surgery (MICS) in comparison with standard phacoemulsification through the temporal clear corneal incision.

METHODS

The examined group consisted of a nonrandomized, consecutive prospective series of 20 eyes of 20 patients who underwent uneventful microincision cataract surgery. Twenty eyes of 20 patients who underwent standard phacoemulsification with foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation served as a reference group. Patients with corneal disorders, contact lens wear, previous intraocular surgery, and a history of ocular trauma were excluded from the study. Patients were examined preoperatively and 10 days postoperatively. The following items were evaluated in this study: corneal endothelial cell density, intraoperative phaco power, effective phaco time, as well as pre- and postoperative visual acuity. Corneal endothelial cell counts were done in the central part of the cornea using a non-contact Topcon SP 2000P specular microscope before and 10 days after the surgery. The measurements were performed in a semiautomated, masked manner. Statistical analysis was done using nonparametric tests (Wilcoxon signed-ranks test and Mann-Whitney U test).

RESULTS

All patients in the study underwent uneventful surgery. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) examined 10 days postoperatively in the MICS group was 0.94+/-0.094, whereas in the standard phacoemulsification group it was 0.90+/-0.094. There was no significant difference between BCVA in the two groups (Mann Whitney U two-tailed test: p>0.05). In both groups there was a significant decrease in postoperative endothelial cell densities (ECDs) when compared to preoperative values. Mean postoperative ECDs were 2235+/-418 cells/mm2 in the MICS group and 2079+/-399 cells/mm2 in the standard phacoemulsification group; the difference was not statistically significant (Mann-Whitney U test: p>0.05). Patients in the MICS group lost an average of 9.5% of cells, whereas patients after standard phacoemulsification lost about 7.6% of cells. This difference was statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSIONS

Microincision cataract surgery induced corneal endothelial cell loss similar to a standard phacoemulsification and allowed excellent visual results in this series of patients. These results support the use of MICS technique for cataract surgery.

The effect of corneal tunnel length in patients after standard phacoemulsification through a 2.75 mm incision on surgically induced astigmatism, corneal thickness and endothelial cell density

PURPOSE

The purpose was to determine the effect of the corneal tunnel length in the 2.75 mm wide clear corneal incision, created during phacoemulsification on surgically induced astigmatism, central corneal thickness and corneal endothelial cell loss.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study comprised 27 eyes (27 patients) who underwent phacoemulsification through 2.75 mm temporal clear corneal incision. Patients were examined preoperatively, 1 day, 7 days and 1 month postoperatively. Exclusion criteria were: previous intraocular surgery, corneal disorders and previous ocular trauma. Best corrected distance visual acuity, keratometry, slit-lamp examination, anterior segment optical coherence tomography and corneal endothelial cell density measurement were performed. Surgically induced astigmatism was calculated with vector method. Statistical analysis was done using non-parametric tests: Wilcoxon test, Mann-Whitney U test and Spearmann correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Mean best-corrected distance visual acuity was 0.30±0.24 preoperatively and 0.94 ± 0.18 postoperatively (p<0.05). Mean corneal incision length 1 day postoperatively was 1.84±0.36 mm. Surgically induced astigmatism was 0.51 ± 0.41 D one month postoperatively. Clear corneal incision length and surgically induced astigmatism were positively correlated (p<0.05). Mean central corneal thickness was 0.51 ± 0.05mm preoperatively, 0.56± 0.09 mm one day and 0.51 ±0.05 mm one month postoperatively (p <0.05). Clear corneal incision length and central corneal thickness 30 days postoperatively were not corrdlated (p=0.27). Mean corneal endothelial cell density was 2483?417 cells/mm² preoperatively and 2325 ± 410 cells/mm² postoperatively. The difference was significant (p<0.05). Clear corneal incision length and corneal endothelial cell loss were not correlated (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the length of the 2.75 mm clear corneal incision influences the surgically induced astigmatism, but it doesn't influence the central corneal thickness and corneal endothelial cell loss. Shorter clear corneal incisions induce smaller surgically induced astigmatism in comparison with longer incisions of the same width and localization. Unequivocal confirmation.of the influence of clear corneal incision length on surgically induced astigmatism requires further investigation on a larger group of patients. Using laser techniques could help, as it would enable to examine patients in groups with different predefined clear corneal incision lengths.

Contrast sensitivity assessment in primary open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension

INTRODUCTION

Contrast sensitivity assessment is an important additional examination, which enables the full insight into the patient's quality of vision, and early diagnosis of visual disturbances.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty six patients (92 eyes) with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension were enrolled in the study. The enrolment criteria were full or almost full visual acuity and the patients with visual field defects or any other ocular disease were excluded. Contrast sensitivity was assessed both under photopic and mesopic conditions (with and without glare) using the Functional Vision Analyzer separately for each eye. Furthermore, the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness was measured using scanning laser polarimetry (GDx).

RESULTS

Contrast sensitivity was significantly reduced under both mesopic and photopic conditions in patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of contrast sensitivity is a valuable diagnostic test, which enables the assessment of visual dysfunction in patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension persisting despite good visual acuity.

Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome – epidemiology and clinical assessment

Purpose: To assess the incidence, and to identify medications and clinical features associated with intraoperative floppy iris syndrome in patients undergoing cataract surgery. Material and methods: The non-randomized, observational, prospective study was performed in 616 eyes (610 patients) after cataract surgery to determine the incidence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome and the medications associated with its higher prevalence. We used a slit lamp adapted optical coherence tomography to evaluate anterior segment of 155 eyes (154 patients), measuring pupil diameter before and after the use of mydriatics and assessing the pre-dilated iris thickness at the dilator and sphincter muscle region. Results: The overall incidence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome was 4% (25/616 eyes). The highest prevalence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome was shown in patients exposed to tamsulosin (39%). Pupil diameter in mm before and after mydriasis was significantly smaller in patients with intraoperative floppy iris syndrome as compared to the syndrome-free ones (pre-dilated – 1.85 ± 0.43 vs. 2.16 ± 0.37; p < 0.01; dilated – 5.04 ± 1.01 vs. 5.70 ± 0.87; p < 0.01). The thickness of the iris in sphincter muscle region in µm was similar in patients with and without intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (520.3 ± 76.1 vs. 520.6 ± 72.4; p > 0.05). Significantly thinner iris in dilator muscle region was found in patients with intraoperative floppy iris syndrome as compared to the syndrome-free ones (409.9 ± 55.7 vs. 448.6 ± 55.8; p < 0.05). The presence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome was correlated with a higher risk of intraoperative complications. Conclusions: Patients with intraoperative floppy iris syndrome have decreased pupil diameter and a thinner iris in dilator muscle region. Slit lamp optical coherence tomography is a useful device to preoperatively detect clinical features associated with intraoperative floppy iris syndrome. These findings may warn the surgeon of potential intra-operative difficulties. Słowa kluczowe: zespół śródoperacyjnie wiotkiej tęczówki (IFIS), epidemiologia, operacja zaćmy, optyczna koherentna tomografia skojarzona z lampą szczelinową (sl-OCT).

[The opinion of the Expert Group of the Polish Society of Ophthalmology on using nepafenac in the prevention of postoperative macular edema after cataract surgery in diabetic patients]

Nepafenac is an innovative non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in ophthalmology for the prevention of macular edema after cataract surgery. Along with its anti-inflammatory effect, nepafenac has some unique properties which distinguish it from other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It is a prodrug activated to amfenac after it penetrates through the corneal layers to the aqueous humour and the ciliary body. Having electrically neutral molecules of lipophilic properties, nepafenac does not accumulate in the cornea and does not cause its degeneration. Additionally, it quickly achieves higher concentrations in the aqueous humour as compared to other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Nepafenac shows high selectivity and activity against COX-2 isoform, the key enzyme implicated in inducing inflammation, which is the main cause of macular edema. Furthermore, nepafenac has the unique scleral and suprachoroidal distribution pathways. Finally, its effect on the intraocular pressure is none to negligible. Nepafenac treatment should be initiated prior to cataract surgery and continued long enough to reduce the risk of late-onset macular edema. The Expert Group of the Polish Society of Ophthalmology consider using nepafenac in the prevention of post­operative macular edema in diabetic patients undergoing cataract surgery as expedient and reasonable. The proposed optimum pre- and postoperative treatment regimen can be modified for individualised therapy.

[Prospective analysis of outcomes of cataract phacoemulsification with the implantation of the Crystalens accommodative intraocular lens]

Objectives: To evaluate visual outcomes after bilateral implantation of Crystalens accommodative intraocular lenses. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 20 patients (40 eyes) who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification through a 2.8 mm wide clear corneal incision followed by the implantation of an accommodative intraocular lens Crystalens HD or Crystalens AO. Uncorrected visual acuity, best corrected visual acuity, distance corrected intermediate visual acuity, distance corrected near visual acuity, best near visual acuity 1, 3, 6, 12 months postoperatively were evaluated. Distance visual acuity was measured with Snellen test. Near (40 cm) and intermediate (80 cm) visual acuity were measured with Jeager test. Results: The mean uncorrected distance visual acuity was 0.94 and 0.89 at month 1. and 12., respectively. The distance corrected intermediate visual acuity was 0.9 and 0.86 at month 1. and 12., respectively. The distance corrected near visual acuity was J1 in 10% and J3 in 50% of patients at month 1. It was J1 in 10% and J3 in 55% of patients at month 12. Conclusions: Crystalens intraocular lens implantation in our patients enabled them to achieve good distance, near and intermediate visual acuity. The majority of patients did not require spectacle correction for distance and near (87.5% and 65%, respectively). The achieved results did not differ significantly at months 1., 6., and 12. postoperatively.

[Treatment outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy in patients with Benson’s disease]

INTRODUCTION

In Benson’s disease (scintillatio albescens or asteroid hyalosis) slight, white condensations of phospholipids are seen in the vitreous. In advanced stages, the decrease of visual acuity or subjective discomfort of vision may follow due to floaters. The pars plana vitrectomy is the treatment of choice in these patients.

PURPOSE

To evaluate surgical treatment outcomes in Bensons’ disease. Material and methods: The research was carried out in a group of patients with Benson’s disease, who had undergone 23G or 25G pars plana vitrectomy in 2012–2014. The evaluated data included: diagnosis, the pre- and postoperative best corrected visual acuity as well as the pre- and postoperative ocular ultrasound (B scans). The study group consisted of 7 patients (8 eyes), including 5 men and 2 women, at the age of 66 to 82 years (mean age of 74 years).

RESULTS

In 5 patients with concomitant cataract, combined procedures of phacoemulsification and pars plana vitrectomy were performed. In one patient, pars plana vitrectomy was done first followed by phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation at a later date. In two cases, only pars plana vitrectomy was performed. All patients were examined 7 days postoperatively and the follow up period ranged from 1 month to 1 year (mean follow up duration of 8 months). Visual acuity and subjective comfort of vision improved in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Pars plana vitrectomy enables improvement of visual acuity and subjective comfort of vision in patients with Benson’s disease. It was confirmed in both subgroups, i.e. in patients who underwent both pars plana vitrectomy and phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation, and those in whom only vitrectomy was performed

The effect of the selected factors on corneal endothelial cell loss following phacoemulsification

INTRODUCTION

Corneal endothelium is a single layer of cells, which do not regenerate. Damage to the endothelium can take place in the course of certain diseases and after intraocular operations. When the number of endothelial cells decreases, corneal decompensation can occur. Pre- and postoperative measurement of the number of the corneal endothelial cells can help assess the degree of corneal damage during the surgery.

PURPOSE

To compare the effect of various factors, such as: sex, age, corneal incision, intraocular pressure, cataract density, visual acuity and surgeon's experience on corneal endothelial cell loss following uneventful phacoemulsification.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

365 patients (114 men and 251 women aged 19 to 91 years) undergoing phacoemulsification were examined preoperatively and postoperatively at 4 weeks. 68 eyes underwent phacoemulsification through a 1.8 mm microincision and 297 eyes through a standard 2.75 mm incision. Patients were operated on by four surgeons.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the postoperative endothelial cell loss relative to the degree of cataract hardness (p < 0.001). Endothelial cell loss was significantly higher in patients aged 71 and above than in the remaining age groups. Significant differences in the postoperative endothelial cell loss were observed in relation to the clear corneal incision size (p < 0.01). Preoperative best corrected visual acuity influenced the postoperative endothelial cell loss in a statistically significant way (p < 0.05). Endothelial cell loss was strongly influenced by the surgeon's experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeon's experience, hardness of cataract, type of corneal incision, age and preoperative visual acuity influenced endothelial cell loss at 4 weeks following uneventful phacoemulsification, however such factors as sex and intraocular pressure showed no statistically significant influence on corneal endothelial cell loss.

[Contemporary views on perioperative prophylaxis of postoperative endophthalmitis]

INTRODUCTION

Post-operative endophthalmitis, although infrequent, leads to severe, often irreversible consequences. For many years in the medical literature there have been reports on the effectiveness of various forms of prevention including antibiotics used.

AIM

The aim of this study was to systematize the principles of prevention on the basis of the literature.

MATERIAL

Medical reports published in recent years were compared to the conclusions of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) conducted in 16 European countries between 2003 and 2005.

RESULTS

The results indicate the lack of a uniform pattern of conduct not only in a global context, but even within European countries. Povidone iodine remains the basis of prophylaxis used before surgery to decontaminate the skin of eyelids and conjunctival sac. Topical antibiotics, mainly the new generation fluoroquinolones, are also commonly used perioperatively. Intracameral injections of cefuroxime at the end of surgery are increasingly used in endophthalmitis prophylaxis. Although their high efficacy and safety have been confirmed a few years ago, the drug formulation intended and registered for use in ophthalmology has been available in most countries since 2013.

CONCLUSIONS

Contemporary post-operative endophthalmitis prophylaxis, although varied in different countries, allowed for a significant reduction in the incidence of this complication in recent years. Most ophthalmologists in European countries declare to follow the ESCRS recommendations.

[Evaluation of quality of life of patients after phacoemulsification with accommodating lens implantation]

INTRODUCTION

Intraocular lens implantation is an important part of cataract surgery, as it has a significant influence on the final result. Accommodative intraocular lenses (IOLs) are the latest solution for the lack of accommodation in pseudophakic eyes.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the quality of life of patients who underwent cataract surgery with accommodating IOL implantation and to compare the data with results of patients after standard monofocal IOL implantation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 20 patients (40 eyes), aged from 48 to 73 years old, who underwent phacoemulsification through a 2.75 mm clear corneal incision followed by the implantation of an accommodating IOL Crystalens HD (Bausch & Lomb, USA). The control group consisted of 20 patients (40 eyes), aged from 63 to 83 years old, who underwent phacoemulsification through a 2.75 mm clear corneal incision followed by the implantation of a standard monofocal single-piece acrylic intraocular lens AcrySof (Alcon, USA). All enrolled patients had no coexisting ocular diseases which could influence the final visual acuity. All surgeries were uneventful. At one month postoperatively, the patients were requested to answer 36 questions included in the questionnaire in order to evaluate the quality of visual function.

RESULTS

There was a significant improvement in the quality of life in both groups after cataract surgery. The study group tended to assess their own eyesight higher than the control group. Patients from the study group use spectacle correction for a lower number of activities, they find it easier to use fine motor skills when performing activities without spectacle correction in comparison with patients from the control group. Patients from the study group use spectacle correction for reading significantly less frequently, they also find it easier to read the normal size and small print without spectacle correction, in comparison with patients from the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with accommodating IOLs self-evaluate their own eyesight highly, use spectacle correction for a lower number of activities and find it significantly easier to perform precise activities without spectacle correction, in comparison with patients after the standard monofocal intraocular lens implantation.

Comparative analysis of early distance visual acuity in patients after coaxial phacoemulsification through the micro-incision (1.8 mm) and after standard phacoemulsification through the small incision (2.75 mm)

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the study was to evaluate early postoperative visual acuity outcomes of coaxial phacoemulsification with a foldable intraocular lens implantation, performed through a 1.8 mm wide clear corneal microincision (C-MICS) and to compare it with standard phacoemulsification through a 2.75 mm incision.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The examined group consisted of a non-randomised, prospective series of 130 eyes of 130 patients who underwent coaxial 1.8 mm microincision cataract surgery with foldable intraocular lens implantation (MI60, Bausch & Lomb). The reference group comprised 123 eyes of 123 patients who underwent standard phacoemulsification through the 2.75 mm incision with foldable intraocular lens implantation (Akreos Adapt AO, Bausch & Lomb). The following parameters were evaluated preoperatively and one day after the surgery: distance uncorrected visual acuity, distance best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, anterior and posterior segment of the eye. All patients were divided into groups according to the LOCS III scale.

RESULTS

The improvement of distance uncorrected visual acuity and distance best corrected visual acuity was observed postoperatively in both groups. The mean uncorrected visual acuity in the examined group was significantly better than in the reference group on the first postoperative day (0.88 +/- 0.18 vs 0.79 +/- 0.26).

CONCLUSIONS

The early postoperative visual acuity results of C-MICS were better than the results of standard small incision phacoemulsification. As far as fast visual rehabilitation after MICS is concerned, the early uncorrected visual acuity should be considered as an important yardstick in measuring success in cataract surgery. These results are due to the MICS technique, which seems to be the minimally invasive surgery, and should be regarded nowadays as a procedure of choice.

[Cataract surgery in a patient with megalocornea - a case report]

PURPOSE

10 describe a rare case ot a patient wiTh megalocorneas wno underwent cataract surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A 52 years old patient with extremely wide corneas 16 mm in diameter in both eyes, was admitted to our department with cataract diagnosis. Four other male members of his family are known to have megalocorneas. This suggests X-linked recessive inheritance. The visual acuities were; 0.9 with correction -3.00 Dsph in the right eye and 0.6 with correction -5.50 Dsph in the left eye. Mosaic corneal dystrophy and slight iridodonesis was found in both eyes. Posterior subcapsular cataracts were seen in both eyes with predominance in the left eye. Moreover, flat peripheral retinal detachment in the lower part of the eye fundus was found, which was presumably long-lasting. Phacoemulsification through the clear corneal temporal micro-incision of 1.8 mm and the foldable intraocular lens IOL) implantation in the left eye were performed. The IOL refractive power was calculated with 101 Master and with standard contact ultrasound biometry. Preventive laser photocoagulation of the retina was performed in the right eye.

RESULTS

No intraoperative and postoperative complications were observed. Two weeks after cataract surgery corrected visual acuity in the left eye was ii] with correction + 1.00 Dsph. The patient was very satisfied with the surgery result.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoemulsification with an implantation of foldable 101 in patients with megalocornea may be a safe procedure with very good functional results. Precise IOL power calculation may be difficult to achieve.

[Applications of various iris retractors]

Fast development of ophthalmology which can be observed in the recent years, is connected with the development of modern technology used in the diagnostics and treatment of ocular diseases. Eyes with a narrow pupil, which doesn't respond to standard pharmacologic management applied preoperatively, are a challenge for any ophthalmic surgeon. The purpose of the study is to describe various surgical devices used for achieving adequate intraoperative pupillary diameter in cataract patients who for various reasons do not respond to pharmacologic mydriasis.

The use of modern imaging techniques in the diagnosis and treatment planning of patients with orbital floor fractures

BACKGROUND

Ocular motility impairment associated with orbital trauma may have several causes and manifest with various clinical symptoms. In some cases orbital reconstructive surgery can be very challenging and the results are often unsatisfactory. The use of modern imaging techniques aids proper diagnosis and surgical planning.

CASE REPORT

The authors present the case of a 29-year-old male who sustained trauma to the left orbit. Orthoptic examination revealed limited supra- and infraduction of the left eye. The patient reported diplopia in upgaze and downgaze with primary position spared. Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) was performed, which revealed restriction of the left inferior rectus muscle in its central section. A patient-specific anatomical model was prepared on the basis of 3-dimensional computed tomography (CT) study of the intact orbit, which was used to prepare a custom pre-bent titanium mesh implant. The patient underwent reconstructive surgery of the orbital floor.

CONCLUSIONS

Modern imaging techniques such as dMRI and 3-dimensional CT reconstruction allow us to better understand the pathophysiology of orbital floor fractures and to precisely plan surgical treatment.

Results of coaxial phacoemulsification through a 1.8-mm microincision in hard cataracts

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To assess the results of coaxial phacoemulsification through 1.8-mm coaxial microincision cataract surgery (C-MICS) phacoemulsification with foldable intraocular lens implantation in eyes with hard cataracts in comparison to eyes with soft cataracts.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Group 1 consisted of 40 eyes of 40 patients with hard cataracts (grade ≥ 4, Lens Opacities Classification System III scale) and group 2 consisted of 45 eyes of 45 patients with non-mature cataracts (grade ≤ 2, Lens Opacities Classification System III scale). All surgeries were performed by two experienced surgeons under topical and intracameral anesthesia. Examinations were performed preoperatively and 1 month after the surgery. Examined parameters included distance-corrected visual acuity (DCVA), autorefractometry, keratometry, tonometry, endothelial cell counts, and biomicroscopy of the anterior and posterior segment. Surgically induced astigmatism was calculated with vector analysis.

RESULTS

Mean DCVA was 0.16 ± 0.16 preoperatively and 0.92 ± 0.21 postoperatively in group 1 (P < .05) and 0.62 ± 0.18 preoperatively and 0.97 ± 0.08 postoperatively in group 2 (P < .05). Mean surgically induced astigmatism was 0.48 ± 0.44 in group 1 and 0.53 ± 0.38 in group 2 (P > .05). Mean endothelial cell loss was 11.37% ± 12.87% in group 1 and 2.87% ± 9.66% in group 2 (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Although density of cataract has an unfavorable influence on early postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss, it did not significantly influence final DCVA and surgically induced astigmatism. C-MICS is a safe and effective method of treatment of cataracts, including cataracts with hard nuclei, and usually leads to good functional outcomes.

Evaluation of surgically induced astigmatism after coaxial phacoemulsification through 1.8 mm microincision and standard phacoemulsification through 2.75 mm incision

Improvements in technology connected with cataract surgery have made it possible to decrease significantly the size of corneal incision created during phacoemulsification. Recently, coaxial phacoemulsification through a 1.8 mm microincision (C-MICS) has been introduced. This technique is perceived as the next step in development of phacoemulsification.

PURPOSE

To compare surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after coaxial 1.8 mm microincision cataract surgery (C-MICS) and standard phacoemulsification through 2.75 mm incision, calculated with three mathematical methods.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A consecutive, prospective series of 55 eyes of 55 patients who underwent uneventful C-MICS with foldable IOL implantation using 1.8 mm temporal clear corneal incision were included in group 1. Reference group (group 2) included 55 eyes of 55 patients who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification through 2.75 mm temporal clear corneal incision with a foldable IOL implantation. SIA was calculated using three methods.

RESULTS

All patients had uneventful surgery and were examined before the surgery and one month postoperatively. There was a significant postoperative increase in corrected distance visual acuity in both groups (p < 0.01), and the visual outcomes in both groups were similar (p > 0.05). In vector analysis, mean SIA was 0.42 +/- 0.30 in group 1 and 0.77 +/- 0.55 in group 2. In vector decomposition, the mean SIA (C90) in group 1 was 0.24 +/- 0.29 and 0.49 +/- 0.54 in group 2 (p < 0.05). In Naeser's polar values method, deltaKP-0 was -0.06 +/- 0.43 in group 1 and -0.21 +/- 0.84 in group 2 (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

1.8 mm coaxial MICS induces a significantly smaller value of SIA than standard 2.75 mm phacoemulsification.

Results of implantation a new type of foldable anterior chamber intraocular lens

In aphakic patients, lack of capsular support or insufficient capsular support require an implantation of an anterior chamber intraocular lens or a sclerally fixated lens. Rigid PMMA (polymethylmetacrylate) anterior chamber intraocular lenses or transscleral intraocular lenses require an incision 6.0-7.0 mm wide.

PURPOSE

Of this study was to evaluate anatomic and functional results of a new foldable acrylic anterior chamber intraocular lens (Acri.Lyc 15A, Acritec) through a small incision (2.8 mm).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The examined group consisted of 30 eyes in 30 patients, at the age from 48 to 87 years (mean 70.90 years, SD +/- 10.57 years), who received a new type foldable acrylic anterior chamber intraocular lens (AC IOL). Examinations were performed before operation and 1-3 days, 1-2 weeks, 3-4 months, 6-8 months after the surgery. During all control examinations visual acuity, intraocular pressure, refraction, corneal endothelium density, pachymetry, keratometry, anterior and posterior segment of the eye were evaluated.

RESULTS

Preoperative mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.32 +/- 0.36 and increased to 0.63 +/- 0.33, 6-8 months after the surgery. We observed that mean corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) gradually decreased in the postoperative period. We observed some minor complications after implantation of the AC IOL (e.g. corneal edema, Descemet folds, raised IOP, hyphaema, distorted pupil shape, "iris bombe", blood in the vitreous, displaced IOL and cystic macular edema), most of them were minor and did not influence the final results.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of foldable anterior chamber intraocular lenses through a small incision is a safe alternative for rigid PMMA anterior chamber intraocular lenses and transscleral intraocular lenses.

[Surgically induced astigmatism after bimanual phacoemulsification through microincision and after standard phacoemulsification]

PURPOSE

The purpose was to compare surgically induced after bimanual phacoemulsification performed through a 1.7 mm superotemporal clear corneal microincision (B-MICS), and after coaxial phacoemulsification performed through a 3.2 mm superotemporal clear corneal incision, calculated with various mathematical methods.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Group 1 consisted of 29 eyes after bimanual phacoemulsification performed through a 1.7 mm superotemporal clear corneal microincision. Group 2 consisted of 31 eyes after coaxial phacoemulsification performed through a 3.2 mm superotemporal clear corneal incision. Ophthalmic examination was performed preoperatively, 1 day, 7 days, 1, 3 and 6 months postoperatively. We performed auto-refractometry, keratometry, tonometry and visual acuity testing (UCVA and BCVA). SIA was calculated using: vector method, vector decomposition, Cravy's and Naeser's method.

RESULTS

There was no difference in mean UCVA and BCVA between the groups in the whole observation period. In vector method SIA did not differ significantly between the groups during the whole follow-up. In vector decomposition (C90 component), SIA was higher in group 2 than in group 1, one day and 1 month postoperatively. Cravy's and Naeser's method showed that SIA in group 2 was significantly higher as long as the 1-st month postoperatively. In the final examination, there was no significant difference in SIA values between the groups for all methods of calculations.

CONCLUSIONS

Technique B-MICS through a 1.7 mm incision offers equally good functional results, as standard phacoemulsification through 3.2 mm superotemporal clear corneal incision. The SIA axis was more stable in microincision group in the whole follow-up period.

Comparison of internal anterior chamber diameter measured with ultrabiomicroscopy with white-to-white distance measured using digital photography in aphakic eyes

PURPOSE

Measuring the anterior chamber diameter (AC) is important both for diagnostics and before ocular surgery. In clinical practice, horizontal AC diameter is usually estimated on the basis of measurements of corneal diameter (so-called white-to-white [WTW] distance). The usual method for selecting an appropriate size for an AC lens is to add 1 mm to WTW measurement. The purpose of this study was to compare AC diameter measured using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) with WTW distance measured using digital photography in aphakic eyes.

METHODS

The data were gathered prospectively from a nonrandomized consecutive series of aphakic patients. The examined group consisted of 23 eyes of 23 adult patients, mean age 71.17 years. WTW diameter was measured in the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock meridian on a digital photograph. Internal horizontal AC diameter measurements were performed in the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock meridian with the Sonomed Ultrabiomicroscopy device with a 50-MHz probe.

RESULTS

Mean horizontal WTW diameter measured using digital photographs was 11.65+/-0.38 mm and mean horizontal internal AC diameter measured using UBM was 13.53+/-0.83 mm. A significant difference in mean WTW diameter measured using digital photography and UBM was found (Mann-Whitney U test, p<0.05). There was a significant correlation between these values (Spearman=0.70, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In order to obtain good and precise measurements of internal AC diameter, a method of direct visualization of the intraocular structures should be used. Despite the limits of a small case series, our results support the use of UBM technique for preoperative evaluation of the internal AC diameter and AC intraocular lens sizing in aphakic eyes.

Comparison of surgically induced astigmatism after coaxial phacoemulsification through 1.8 mm microincision and bimanual phacoemulsification through 1.7 mm microincision

PURPOSE

To compare surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after coaxial 1.8 mm microincision cataract surgery (MICS) and bimanual 1.7 mm MICS calculated with 3 mathematical methods.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.

METHODS

Study comprised a nonrandomized prospective consecutive series of 58 eyes of 58 patients who had uneventful coaxial MICS with implantation of an Akreos MI60 foldable intraocular lens (IOL) using a 1.8 mm temporal clear corneal incision. Fifty eyes of 50 patients who had uneventful bimanual MICS through a 1.7 mm clear corneal incision for a sleeveless phaco tip and a 1.5 mm side port for an irrigating chopper with implantation of an Acri.Smart 48S foldable IOL served as a comparison group. All surgery was performed by 2 experienced surgeons. Surgically induced astigmatism was calculated using 3 methods.

RESULTS

The patients were examined preoperatively and 2 weeks to 1 month postoperatively. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were seen in any patient. The corrected distance visual acuity improved significantly in both groups after surgery (P<.01); the visual outcomes were not significantly different (P>.05). In vector analysis, the mean SIA was 0.42 +/- 0.29 in the coaxial MICS group and 0.50 +/- 0.24 in the bimanual group; the difference was not statistically significant (P>.05). In vector decomposition, the mean SIA (C90) coaxial MICS group was 0.23 +/- 0.29 in the coaxial MICS group and 0.23 +/- 0.22 in the bimanual MICS group; the difference was not significant. Using the Naeser method, DeltaKP-90 was calculated, amounting to 0.05 +/- 0.44 in the coaxial MICS group and -0.04 +/- 0.42 in the bimanual MICS group; the difference was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The amount of SIA induced by bimanual MICS and coaxial MICS phacoemulsification was very small. The bimanual MICS induced a slightly higher degree of SIA; however, according to all methods of SIA analysis, there was no significant difference in the mean SIA induced by both techniques.

Incidence and functional outcome of phacoemulsification complicated by posterior capsular rupture

PURPOSE

To evaluate retrospectively anatomic and functional results of phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, complicated by intraoperative posterior capsular rupture (PCR).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data were gathered from medical records of 930 patients (one thousand eyes), who underwent phacoemulsification. The examined group consisted of 52 eyes of 52 patients, 27 women (52%), and 25 men (48%), 50 to 84 years old (mean age 73.52 +/- 7.8), who underwent phacoemulsification complicated by intraoperative posterior capsular rupture. The control group consisted of 427 patients, including 263 women (61.59%) and 164 men (38.41%), at the age 44 to 93 (mean age 70.3 +/- 10.2), who underwent uncomplicated cataract phacoemulsification. All patients had ophthalmic examination preoperatively, one day postoperatively and 10 to 14 days postoperatively. The evaluated data included: patients' age and gender, pre- and postoperative best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, state of the anterior and posterior segment, early postoperative complications, type of implanted intraocular lens and whether anterior vitrectomy was performed. Nonparametric tests were used for statistical analysis (Wilcoxon signed-ranks test and Mann-Whitney U test).

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference in postoperative BCVA between both groups was found. Mean postoperative BCVA in the PCR group was 0.63 +/- 0.27, whereas mean postoperative BCVA in the reference group was 0.78 +/- 0.18 (p < 0.001). Ten patients in the PCR group (19%), required anterior vitrectomy. In-the-bag implantation was performed in all eyes from the reference group, but it constituted only 31% (16 eyes), of the PCR group. We found that eyes with PCR are 2.6 times more likely to develop other intraoperative complications and early postoperative complications in comparison with controls. In our study eyes with PCR were about 5 times more likely to have a final BCVA worse than 0.5 than eyes from uncomplicated surgery group.

CONCLUSIONS

Eyes with intraoperative PCR during phacoemulsification have a higher risk of reduced BCVA, however, it is possible to achieve good final BCVA in the majority of eyes. Appropriate intraoperative and postoperative management will usually allow to perform a successful procedure with safe placement of an intraocular lens, thus ensuring a relatively favourable outcome.

Analysis of causes of intraocular lens explantations in the material of Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lodz

PURPOSE

Implantation of intraocular lenses (IOLS) has become a standard practice in cataract surgery, however, similar to any other type of surgery, using IOLs is not complication-free and sometimes explantation of intraocular lenses may be necessary. This study was to gather data and analyze causes of intraocular lens explantations, performed in the Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Łódź.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The data were gathered from medical documentation of all patients who underwent intraocular lens removal from January 2003 to July 2006. The examined group consisted of 16 patients (16 eyes): 9 women (fraction 0.56), and 7 men (fraction 0.44), at the age from 21 to 82 years (mean age 62.4 years, SD +/- 15.5). In all patients IOL explantation was performed under local, peribulbar anaesthesia.

RESULTS

Two groups of patients were distinguished: patients who had an anterior chamber lens explanted (3 patients, fraction 0.19) and patients who underwent posterior chamber lens explantation (13 patients, fraction 0.81). Causes of AC IOL explantations were: vaulting of the IOL (1 eye, fraction 0.06), luxation of the IOL to the vitreous cavity (1 eye, fraction 0.06), and painful eyeball after anterior chamber lens implantation (1 eye, fraction 0.06). Causes of PC IOL explantations were: subluxation of the IOL (6 eyes, fraction 0.38), luxation of the lens to the vitreous cavity (3 eyes, fraction 0.19), luxation of the lens to the anterior chamber (1 eye, fraction 0.06), endophthalmitis (2 eyes, fraction 0.13) and incorrect lens power (1 eye, fraction 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

In the majority of eyes (n = 13, fraction 0.81) the removed implant was replaced by another intraocular lens, but 3 eyes (fraction 0.19) were left aphakic. We did not observe serious intra- or early postoperative complications which might influence the final result of the operation.

[Evaluation of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and spherical aberrations in pseudophakic eyes with an intraocular lens]

INTRODUCTION

The use of modern technologies enables constructing and producing perfected intraocular lenses. Recently, aspheric implants have become widely available.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to evaluate functional results, contrast sensitivity in scotopic conditions and spherical aberrations of the optical system of the eye after phacoemulsification with implantation of aspheric intraocular lens.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The material was gathered prospectively from January until July 2006. The examined group included patients who received aspheric intraocular lenses Adapt AO or AcrySof SN60WF and who previously had received a conventional foldable spherical lens in the fellow eye. The examined group with an intraocular lens Adapt AO consisted of 25 eyes (25 patients) and the examined group with an intraocular lens AcrySof SN60WF consisted of 12 eyes (12 patients). We examined best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and intraocular pressure. Contrastometry in scotopic conditions and aberrometry were performed. Intraoperative and early postoperative complications were noted. For statistical analysis non-parametric U Mann-Whitney test was used, all calculations were performed for the level of significance alpha = 0.05.

RESULTS

In the examined groups there were no intraoperative and early postoperative complications. In both groups, there was no statistically significant difference in mean postoperative BCVA between eyes with an aspheric implant and eyes with a spherical lens. Assuming the mean contrast sensitivity in eyes with spherical implants as 100%, we observed that in eyes with an aspheric lens it was better nearly by one third. Mean value of spherical aberrations with a pupil diameter of 5mm (Zernike RMS 5 mm) in eyes with an aspheric lens was significantly lower in comparison with eyes with a spherical implant (p < 0.05). Similarly, mean value of higher order spherical aberrations with a pupil diameter of 5 mm (Higher Order Zernike RMS 5 mm), in eyes with an aspheric lens was significantly lower in comparison with eyes with a spherical implant (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Using aspheric lenses Adapt AO and AcrySof SN60WF allows for achieving very good functional and anatomic results and it enables to achieve better contrast sensitivity in scotopic conditions, as well as significantly decreases spherical aberrations of the optical system of the eye, in comparison with conventional spherical lenses.

[Comparison of efficacy and safety of cataract phacoemulsification in patients with different degree of nuclear sclerosis]

PURPOSE

To compare the course of surgery and operative outcomes in patients with different stages of nuclear hardness.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study comprises 36 patients with hard nucleus cataract (III and IV degree in LOCS scale)--group II and 45 patients with softer types of cataract (I and II degree in LOCS scale)--group I. All patients underwent clear corneal phacoemulsification and foldable intraocular lens implantation. In both groups intraoperative course was assessed and energy with effective phaco time were measured. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness and endothelial cell density were estimated preoperatively and one week postoperatively.

RESULTS

Energy and effective phaco time were significantly higher in group II. Mean visual acuity in both groups was 0.8 +/- 0.2. Intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness and endothelium cell loss were not significantly different in both groups. Endothelium cell loss were not significantly correlated with increase of energy or duration of phacoemulsification in any of groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Cataracts with higher stage of nuclear hardness required more energy and effective phaco time to be employed, but it did not influenced significantly postoperative visual acuity, intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness change and loss of endothelial cells.

[Strabismus surgery in pseudophakic patients]

PURPOSE

To analyze the results of strabismus surgery after previous cataract extraction with primary or secondary IOL implantation and to determine predicting factors of squint.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eight patients with squint deviation after cataract surgery with primary or secondary IOL implantation were enrolled into this study. Each patient had complete ophthalmologic and orthoptic examination. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I consisted of 5 patients with secondary IOL implantation after traumatic cataract surgery, and group II consisted of 3 patients without ocular trauma, with primary IOL implantation. Five patients from both of groups had diplopia after IOL implantation.

RESULTS

Strabismus surgery was performed in all cases. Surgery was combined with preoperative botuline toxin injections and Fresnel prism correction. Two patients were treated with adjustable suture technique. Treatment was successful in all cases. Five patients had no diplopia in primary position, two of them had occasional diplopia in secondary positions, while 3 patients with pour visual acuity achieved only esthetic effect.

CONCLUSIONS

1. Strabismus surgery in patients with pseudophakia is a complicated procedure which can optimize visual alignment, improve binocular vision and reduce diplopia. 2. Patients with diplopia or squint after IOL implantation ought to be informed about the possibility of strabismus surgery, both for diplopia and esthetic effect.

[Estimation of Doppler qualitative blood flow parameters in the eyeball arteries in early pregnancy]

PURPOSE

The study was aimed to evaluate changes in Doppler blood flow indices in the eyeball arteries in women in the early stage of pregnancy compared with non pregnant woman.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Color Doppler imaging (CDI) of ophthalmic artery, central retinal artery and posterior ciliary arteries was performed in 15 health pregnant women between 6 and 9 weeks of gestation and in 13 non pregnant women.

RESULTS

S/D values were statistically significantly higher in women in early pregnancy, compared with non pregnant woman. In the eyeball arteries, of both pregnant and non pregnant woman, blood flow indices were the highest in the ophthalmic artery, and decline subsequently in the central retinal artery and ciliary posterior arteries.

CONCLUSIONS

Women in early pregnancy had higher values of all blood flow parameters but only values of systolic-diastolic index was statistically significant.

[Phacofragmentation with perfluorocarbon liquid and anterior chamber or scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation for the management of luxated crystalline lenses--long-term results]

PURPOSE

Estimation of long-term results and complications of complex surgical technique, used for the management of luxated crystalline lenses.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This prospective study involved 29 consecutive patients (31 eyes) with the mean age of 62 years. The applied surgical technique comprised pars plana vitrectomy, perfluorocarbon liquid injection and crystalline lens phacofragmentation in the vitreous cavity. Simultaneously, anterior chamber intraocular lenses (IOLs) were implanted in 13 eyes, and scleral-fixated, posterior chamber IOLs in 17 eyes. In one patient with high myopia the lens was not implanted. The follow-up ranged between 9 and 38 months (mean 22.8 months).

RESULTS

No complications were observed during phacofragmentation. Improvement in visual acuity was achieved in 18 cases one week after operation and in 23 patients at last examination. We achieved visual acuity of 4/50--hand movements in 4 cases, 5/16-5/50 in 3 eyes, 5/8-5/12 in 7 and 5/5-5/7 in 17 cases, in last examination. There were no intra-operative complications. Low visual acuity in some cases was due to the presence of postoperative complications or coexisting eye diseases, such as secondary glaucoma, atonic pupil, age related macular degeneration, retinal detachment and macular hole.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacofragmentation with perfluorocarbon liquid and IOL implantation for the management of luxated crystalline lenses is safe and effective method, providing very good long-term functional results.

[Evaluation of corneal endothelium morphology in diabetic patients]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of diabetes mellitus and type of hipoglicemic therapy on corneal endothelium cell morphology.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In 68 diabetic patients' eyes with non proliferative diabetic retinopathy (29 males and 39 females), corneal endothelium was studied. Patients age was between 50 and 82 years (mean 63.28). As age-matched control group we analyzed 58 eyes of non diabetic patients. Corneal endothelium density, percentage of corneal endothelium hexagonal cells, average size of corneal endothelium cells and corneal thickness were imaged by non-contact specular microscope TOPCON SP-2000P.

RESULTS

The mean corneal endothelium cell density was: 2467 cells/mm2 in diabetic patients, and 2573 cells/mm2 in control group. The mean percentage of corneal endothelium hexagonal cells was: 55.3% in diabetic patients treated with insulin and 52.9% in diabetic patients treated with oral antidiabetic drugs, and 54.4% in the control group. The mean size of corneal endothelium cells was: 414.6 microm2 in diabetic patients, and 395.9 microm2 in the control group. The mean corneal thickness was: 0.556 mm in diabetic patients and 0.545 mm in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Corneal endothelium was thicker in diabetic patients than in non diabetic patients. The duration of diabetes mellitus had no influence on corneal endothelium cell morphology. Diabetic patients treated with oral antidiabetic drugs had larger percentage of hexagonal cells than those treated with insulin.

[Retinal capillary blood flow in exudative age-related macular degeneration]

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate retinal capillary blood flow in patients with exudative AMD.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty patients with exudative AMD and twenty four patients age-matched control subjects, were included into the study. Retinal capillary blood flow was evaluated with Heidelberg Retinal Flowmeter (HRF), measurements were taken in two macular regions. The total mean flow and mean velocity were calculated usingthe technique of automatic full field perfusion image analysis (AFFPIA). The U Mann-Whitney test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Patients with exudative AMD revealed slightly lower retinal blood flow than control subjects in area I and in area II. In the AMD group total mean flow values were: 295.75 AU/ 303.85 AU, while in the control group were: 302.37 AU/ 304.42 AU. The mean velocity values were: 1.48 AU/ 1.42 AU in AMD patients and: 1.49 AU/ 1.52 AU in control group. The differences did not reach the statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results showed no changes in retinal capillary blood flow in patients with exudative AMD comparing to normal subjects.

[Pathomorphology of membranes appearing in proliferative vitreoretinopathies]

Immunohistochemical techniques were used to investigate the cell content of epiretinal membranes occuring in proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Ten epiretinal membranes were obtained during surgery from eyes with PVR and five from eyes with PDR. This material was studied histopathologically and immunohistochemically. Retinal pigment epithelial cells, glial cells, macrophages, T lymphocytes and type IV collagen were identified in these membranes. The findings indicate that the cells mentioned possess a potential role in creating vitreoretinal membranes in PVR and PDR.

[Proliferative vitreoretinopathy--selected issues concerning morphology and pathophysiology]

Based on the literature review the article presents state of the art knowledge on creation, structure and pathophysiology of membranes occurring in PVR. Additionally selected clinical risk factors are discussed.

[Results of bimanual phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation through the micro incision]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the postoperative results of bimanual, cold phacoemulsification with foldable lens implantation through 1.7 mm incision.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty four bimanual cold phacoemulsifications with Acri. Smart (AcriTec) IOL implantation through 1.7 mm incision were performed in the Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lódź, between March and May 2004. In the group of 34 patients, 24 were women and 10 were men. The mean age of patients was 67 years (range between 42 and 77). Preoperative visual acuity ranged from 0.5/50 to 5/10. Mean visual acuity was 0.3. Preoperative astigmatism ranged from 0.15 to 2.3 diopters (mean 0.7). Preoperatively, nuclear density was estimated according to LOCS III classification. Twenty patients (59%) had 1 to 3 nuclear density, and 14 (41%) had 4 to 6 nuclear density. All surgeries were performed with Oertli machine using the burst mode with a sleeveless phaco tip. Postoperative examinations were conducted on the 1st and the 7th day, and I month after the surgery. Visual acuity, astigmatism, status of the cornea and IOL centration were evaluated.

RESULTS

No intraoperative complications were observed. All 34 patients maintained corneal transparency with no signs of thermal damage around the wound. Visual acuity improved in all cases. Mean visual acuity in 33 patients who had no coexisting ocular diseases I month after surgery was 0.98 and the mean induced astigmatism was 0.2 diopters. In all cases IOLs were very well centred.

CONCLUSIONS

Bimanual phacoemulsification is a very safe method allowing to minimise corneal incision. Using Acri. Smart IOLs, the induced astigmatism is very small, almost imperceptible to patients.

Management of bilateral ectopia lentis et pupillae syndrome

A 52-year-old patient presented with signs clinically consistent with ectopia lentis et pupillae syndrome. The patient was treated successfully with vitrectomy, dislocated lens removal using perfluorocarbon liquid and phacofragmentation in the vitreous cavity, pupil reconstruction, and scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation in both eyes. Despite the fact that the surgery was successful in technical terms, the final visual outcome was not as good as expected. This was caused by the optic nerve atrophy resulting from long-lasting glaucoma. Nevertheless, the described surgical techniques may be considered an effective method of treatment in cases of ectopia lentis et pupillae syndrome.

[Multifocal oscillatory potentials (mfOPs) in patients with central retinal vein occlusion]

PURPOSE

To evaluate usefulness of multifocal oscillatory potentials (mfOPs) in diagnostics in patients with retinal vein occlusions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The Visual Evoked Imaging System (VERIS, version 4.9) was used to stimulate the visual system to elicit mfOPs from 103 areas subtending the central 70-80 degrees of the retina in three patients with central or branch retinal vein occlusions. Two stimulating conditions were used. For each subject, the mean first- and second-order kernel responses from occlusion area, were analyzed and compared with the fellow eye and control subjects results.

RESULTS

In retinal areas without circulatory disturbances in fluorescein angiography all mfOPs components were present. In a patient with branch retinal vein occlusion in the area without capillary perfusion mfOPs responses were not detectable.

CONCLUSIONS

The mfOPs are in a large extent dependent on a proper retinal circulation. The recording of mfOPs may be useful in clinical diagnosis, to asses circulatory disturbances in internal layers of the retina and in differentiation of ischemic from non ischemic retinal vein occlusions.

Phacofragmentation with perfluorocarbon liquid and anterior chamber or scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation for the management of luxated crystalline lenses

PURPOSE

To present a complex surgical technique used for the management of luxated crystalline lenses and evaluate treatment results.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.

METHODS

This prospective study involved 29 consecutive patients (30 eyes) with the mean age of 60.3 years. The applied surgical technique comprised pars plana vitrectomy, perfluorocarbon liquid injection, and crystalline lens phacofragmentation in the vitreous cavity. Simultaneously, anterior chamber intraocular lenses (IOLs) were implanted in 10 eyes, and scleral-fixated posterior chamber IOLs in 20 eyes. The follow-up mean was 5.2 month (range 1 to 16 months).

RESULTS

No complications were observed during phacofragmentation. Visual acuity improved in 22 cases and did not change in the other 8 eyes. The mean visual acuity was 0.40 +/- 0.37 (SD) (range between hand movements and 1.0) preoperatively and 0.68 +/- 0.34 (range 0.05 to 1.0) postoperatively. In 22 cases (73%), very good or good visual acuity (6/6 to 6/12) was achieved. There were no intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, transient hypotony was observed in 10 eyes, fibrinous reaction in the anterior chamber in 1 eye, dispersed blood in the vitreous cavity in 8 eyes, hyphema in 1 eye, corneal edema in 1 eye, vitritis in 3 cases, iris tug in 1 eye with an anterior chamber IOL, and slight dislocation of the scleral-fixated IOL in 1 case. Intraocular pressure was elevated in 11 eyes preoperatively; postoperatively, it normalized in 7 eyes without medication.

CONCLUSION

Phacofragmentation with perfluorocarbon liquid and IOL implantation for the management of luxated crystalline lenses was safe and effective method, providing good functional results.

[Retinal capillary blood flow in nonexudative age-related macular degeneration]

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate retinal capillary blood flow in patients with nonexudative age-related macular degeneration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty five patients with nonexudative age-related macular degeneration and twenty five age-matched control subjects were enrolled into the study. Full ophthalmological examination and fluorescein angiography were performed. Retinal blood flow was evaluated with the Heidelberg Retina Flowmeter. Total mean flow and mean velocity were calculated using the technique of automatic full field perfusion image analysis

RESULTS

Patients with nonexudative age-related macular degeneration revealed statistically significant lower retinal blood flow than control subjects. In AMD group total mean flow values were 266.89 / 272.21 AU, while in control group were: 1.498 / 1.509 AU. Mean velocity values were: 1.315 / 1.329 AU in AMD patients and: 1.498 / 1.509 AU in controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results showed reduced capillary retinal blood flow in patients with age-related macular degeneration compared to normal subjects. This retinal microcirculation impairment suggests more generalized perfusion defect involving both, choroidal and retinal blood flow.

[Evaluation of results of combined pars plana vitrectomy and cataract removal]

PURPOSE

Cataract often coexists with pathologies of the vitreous body. Moreover, after several months after vitrectomy, the lens becomes opaque. Lens opacities interfere with appropriate visualisation of the vitreous chamber and the eye fundus, which makes performing vitreoretinal procedures difficult. For this reason, in such patients, a combined procedure of pars plana vitrectomy and cataract extraction can be considered. This is retrospective analysis of the indications and results of combined cataract extraction and pars plana vitrectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The data were based on case histories of patients who underwent combined cataract extraction and pars plana vitrectomy in the years 2001 - 2003, in the Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lódź. The evaluated data included: diagnosis, pre- and postoperative best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, pre- and postoperative state of the anterior and posterior segment of the eye and the employed surgical techniques.

RESULTS

The examined group consisted of 40 patients (40 eyes), including 20 men and 20 women, at the age from 13 to 76 years old (mean 55.7, SD+/-14.6). The indications to vitrectomy were: vitreous haemorrhage, retinal detachment, vitreoretinal proliferations, intraocular foreign body, persistent hyaloid artery and endophthalmitis. Phacoemulsification was the most often used method of cataract extraction (34 people, 85%). In three patients cataract was removed by classical extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE), and in further 3 patients bimanual aspiration was used. In terms of anatomical results, therapeutic success was achieved in 35 cases (87,5%). Improvement of visual acuity was observed in 28 people (70%), unchanged visual acuity in 10 people (25%), and a decrease in visual acuity in 2 patients (5%). Improvement of visual acuity at least 2 lines on Snellen's chart was achieved in 20 patients (50%).

[Color Doppler imaging of the retrobulbar circulation in non-exudative and exudative age-related macular degeneration]

PURPOSE

To study ocular perfusion in the ophthalmic artery, central retinal artery, nasal and temporal posterior ciliary : arteries in non-exudative and exudative age-related macular degeneration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty five subjects with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration were compared to twenty five subjects with exudative age-related macular degeneration and to twenty five age-matched control subjects. Color Doppler imaging measured peak systolic velocity (PSV) and end diastolic velocity (EDV) in the ophthalmic artery, central retinal artery, nasal and temporal posterior ciliary arteries of one eye. The resistivity index (RI) and the pulsatility index (PI) were calculated.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant differences between: subjects with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration and subjects with exudative age-related macular degeneration in EDV, RI and PI in the ophthalmic artery and PSV in the temporal posterior ciliary artery, subjects with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration and control subjects in RI in central retinal artery, subjects with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration and control subjects in RI and PI in nasal posterior ciliary artery, subjects with exudative age-related macular degeneration and control subjects in PI in nasal posterior ciliary artery.

CONCLUSIONS

The study results showed reduced ocular blood flow in patients with non-exudative age-related macular degeneration compared to patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration and to control subjects. The higher RI in central retinal artery in non-exudative age-related macular degeneration compared to control subjects, suggest there may be a more generalized perfusion abnormality beyond the choroid.

[Surgically induced astigmatism after cataract phacoemulsification]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the astigmatic effect after phacoemulsification depending on size and location of incision.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Three groups of 30 patients each: In 1st group with scleral tunnel incision enlarged to 6 mm with continuous cross-like suture at 12 o'clock; In 2nd group with 3.2 mm scleral incision without suture at 12 o'clock; In 3rd group with 3.2 mm superotemporal incision in clear cornea, no suture. Postoperative astigmatism was examined by keratometry after 1 day, 1 week and 1 and 3 months post surgery. Surgically induced astigmatism was calculated by polar values method.

RESULTS

After 3 months observation the lowest mean postoperative corneal astigmatism was achieved in group III. The SIA was 0.71 in group III, 1.08 in group I and 0.95 in group II. The differences between group III and groups I, II were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgically induced astigmatism can be minimized with incision in clear cornea and no suture.

[The influence of viscoelastic's maintenance in the anterior chamber on early results and complications after trabeculectomy]

PURPOSE

The evaluation of intraocular pressure and number of complications in the early postoperative period in patients after trabeculectomy with viscoelastic agent used to recreate the anterior chamber at the end of procedure.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Between November 2001 and February 2002, in 56 patients (58 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma trabeculectomy was performed. Patients were divided into two groups. Trabeculectomy was performed with leaving the viscoelastic agent (Provisc) in the anterior chamber at the end of surgery in 29 eyes of 28 patients (Group A), while in 28 patients (29 eyes) the anterior chamber was filled with Ringer solution (Group B). Preoperative IOP in group A ranged from 19 to 48 mmHg, mean--28.41 mmHg. In group B it ranged between 19 and 41 mmHg, mean--25.07 mmHg. The follow-up time was 1 month in every case.

RESULTS

The mean IOP on the first, fifth, 14th and 30th day after surgery was 14.0 mmHg, 13.2 mmHg, 12.03 mmHg and 11.76 mmHg respectively in group A, while in group B corresponding values were: 9.0 mmHg, 8.97 mmHg, 8.83 mmHg and 8.9 mmHg. The shallowing of anterior chamber and choroidal detachment were observed in 4 eyes (13.8%) in group A and in 8 eyes (27.6%) in group B postoperatively. The increased IOP during first days after surgery was observed in 3 cases (10.3%) in group A.

CONCLUSIONS

The viscoelastic agent left in the anterior chamber at the end of trabeculectomy significantly decreases the frequency of anterior chamber shallowing and choroidal detachment and reduces number of cases with hypotony.

[Intraocular pressure in early postoperative period after cataract phacoemulsification]

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the pattern of intraocular pressure (IOP) change after phacoemulsification and its bearing on timing of postoperative review.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

31 eyes of 31 consecutive patients having uneventful phacoemulsification were included in this study. The IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry preoperatively and 1-3 hours, 1 day and 1 week postoperatively. The relationship between these measurements' readings were examined.

RESULTS

31 patients completed the study. The IOP checked next day was significantly correlated with the IOP preoperatively.

CONCLUSION

After phacoemulsification with OIL implantation the decrease in IOP was observed in first three postoperative hours in comparison with preoperative values and it was followed by an increase on the first postoperative day. It decreased again after a week reaching values lower than preoperatively. Only in few cases (10%) a transient intraocular hypertension (23-26 mmHg) appeared on the first postoperative day.

[Long-term results of trabeculectomy in patients with open angle and angle-closure glaucoma]

PURPOSE

To provide data on the long-term results of trabeculectomy performed in open angle and in chronic angle-closure glaucoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty nine eyes of 51 patients, underwent trabeculectomy from 1992 to 1994 in the Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lodz. The follow up was minimum 10 years. Such pre- and postoperative measurements, as: visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), visual field and the use of hypotensive medications, were evaluated.

RESULTS

Successful IOP control was obtained in 91%. After 10-years follow-up the average IOP was 15 mmHg. The decrease in visual acuity was found in 25% of eyes, caused mainly by cataract. In 71% of eyes (10 years after surgery) additional topical medication was required.

CONCLUSIONS

Trabeculectomy is effective and very often performed surgery in glaucoma.