Evaluation of Effects of Uncomplicated Cataract Surgery on Intraocular Pressure

Abstract

Background: Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed elective surgeries in the world. Besides, the phacoemulsification technique adopted as standard procedure for cataract extraction has a potential of intraocular pressure (IOP)-modification. The time effect and the magnitude of affection of IOP post phacoemulsification are still debatable.
Aim of Study: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the magnitude 0f effect of the phacoemulsification cataract extraction procedure and foldable posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL) implantation on intraocular pressure (IOP) and the average change in that effect 6 months postoperatively in normal (nonglaucomatous) subjects.
Materials and Methods: 49 patients (eyes) were included in our study all were undergoing phacoemulsification and foldable PC IOL implantation. IOP was recorded preoperatively, three months, and 6 months postoperatively.
Results: The range of intraocular pressure was 10-22 mmHg preoperatively and 10-20 mmHg postoperatively. There was a highly significant reduction in mean IOP from 16.41±2.75 mmHg to 13.82±2.14 mmHg (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Cataract surgery with phacoemulsification was associated with a statistically significant reduction in IOP in non-glaucomatous eyes with an open angle, the effect lasts throughout the time of follow up of 6 months.