Results of cataract surgery by phacoemulsification in patients having pseudoexfoliation syndrome
Purpose: To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of cataract surgery by phacoemulsification in patients having pseudoexfoliation Methods: In a retrospective study results of cataract surgery by phacoemulsification in 136 patients (183 eyes) having pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) were compared with results of phacoemulsification in 468 patients (576 eyes) without PEX. Outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, intra- and postoperative complications, mean consumption of ultrasound energy. Statistical analysis was done by using chi-square test. Results: Visual acuity of 0.5 or better was achieved equally in both the groups. There was no significant difference in the frequency of capsular/zonular tear, which occurred in 3.3 and 2.1% in study and control group respectively (P = 0.6056). Number of cases with insufficient mydriasis requiring mechanical pupil stretching was significantly higher in PEX group. Zonular weakness was also more commonly noticed in PEX group. Postoperatively inflammatory response was same in both groups (6.6 and 7.3% in study and control group respectively, P = 0.85). Irregular pupils, capsulorhexis phimosis, capsular contraction syndrome and IOL dislocation in postoperative period were more common in study group. Conclusions: Phacoemulsification represents a safe and effective method in cataract surgery in eyes with PEX, even though significantly extra manipulations were required intraoperatively. High rate of IOL dislocation in PEX group makes it necessary to take preventive measures at the time of surgery.