Intraocular pressure in the first days after implantation of posterior chamber lenses with the use of sodium hyaluronate (Healon).

Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured before and 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of a posterior chambers lens in 3 groups of patients. Group I (30 patients): Sodium hyaluronate (Healon) was used during anterior capsulotomy and lens implantation and was aspirated at the end of surgery. Group II (22 patients): Healon as in group I + 500 mg acetazolamide at the end of surgery. Group III (17 patients): BSS and/or air was used instead of Healon during surgery. In all groups statistically significant rises in IOP after 6 h were followed by significant falls in the remaining post-operative period. The rise and subsequent fall in IOP was significantly greater in group I than in group III. Acetazolamide in group II did not prevent excessive rises in IOP. Aspiration probably shortens the period of Healon-induced hypertension. We recommend a meticulous aspiration of Healon at the end of surgery.