PURPOSE: To assess the speed of visual function recovery after phacoemulsification using topical anesthesia. SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology, Royal United Hospital, Bath, United Kingdom. METHODS: Twenty consecutive patients having routine sutureless clear corneal phacoemulsification with implantation of a Staar foldable intraocular lens were recruited in a prospective study. Visual acuity was assessed using a LogMAR chart and contrast sensitivity using a Pelli-Robson chart 1, 2, 4, and 16 hours postoperatively. A final examination and refraction were performed at 1 week. RESULTS: Although return of visual acuity was slow during the first 2 hours, the mean LogMAR acuity had improved to 0.425 (Snellen equivalent 6/15) by 4 hours and 0.165 (Snellen equivalent of 6/9.5) by 16 hours. There was no postoperative ptosis or diplopia. CONCLUSION: The absence of diplopia and rapid return of visual function with a mean acuity of 6/15 by 4 hours suggest that early patient discharge is relatively safe.
PURPOSE: To assess the speed of visual function recovery after phacoemulsification using topical anesthesia. SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology, Royal United Hospital, Bath, United Kingdom. METHODS: Twenty consecutive patients having routine sutureless clear corneal phacoemulsification with implantation of a Staar foldable intraocular lens were recruited in a prospective study. Visual acuity was assessed using a LogMAR chart and contrast sensitivity using a Pelli-Robson chart 1, 2, 4, and 16 hours postoperatively. A final examination and refraction were performed at 1 week. RESULTS: Although return of visual acuity was slow during the first 2 hours, the mean LogMAR acuity had improved to 0.425 (Snellen equivalent 6/15) by 4 hours and 0.165 (Snellen equivalent of 6/9.5) by 16 hours. There was no postoperative ptosis or diplopia. CONCLUSION: The absence of diplopia and rapid return of visual function with a mean acuity of 6/15 by 4 hours suggest that early patient discharge is relatively safe.
Authors: Ayman Saeed; Jeremy O'Connor; Geraldine Cunnife; Jim Stack; Mark G Mullhern; Stephen Beatty Journal: Int Ophthalmol Date: 2008-07-23 Impact factor: 2.031