Aphakic cystoid macular edema and the operating microscope: is there a connection?

The literature documenting the phototoxic effect of relatively low intensity light on the retina and the suggestions by several authors that this might influence the development of cystoid macular edema in the aphakic and pseudophakic patient is reviewed. In particular, the possibility that the operating microscope may be a factor has been emphasized. A study is presented, designed to investigate the possibility that the operating microscope is a factor important in the development of cystoid macular edema. No correlation was found. The need for further investigation into other phototoxic effects from the light of the operating microscope is stressed.