Abstract
Purpose: :
To explore changes in central corneal thickness related to the volume of BSS Plus used during phacoemulsification cataract surgery with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation.
Methods: :
This study analyzed the change in central corneal thickness in 36 patients with age-related cataracts following phacoemulsification. Central corneal thickness was recorded by corneal pachymetry immediately prior to surgery and one day post-operatively. The volume of BSS Plus used was documented after each case. The same surgeon performed each operation without complications.
Results: :
The mean CCT pre-operatively was 543.4 and 559.54μm post-operatively. The average amount of BSS Plus used throughout each procedure was 79.92cc. The range of BSS Plus volumes were between 49 and 181cc. There was a statistically significant increase in central corneal thickness one day post-operatively (p<0.05). However, there was no statistically significant correlation between increased post-operative central corneal thickness and the volume of BSS Plus used during phacoemulsification.
Conclusions: :
The volume of BSS Plus solution used during phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation has no statistically significant correlation to the post-operative increase in central corneal thickness. An experienced surgeon performed each case on patients without corneal pathology. Further analysis incorporating phacoemulsification time should be performed to help explain increased central corneal thickness following surgery.
Keywords: cataract • cornea: clinical science • edema