title: Subconjunctival betamethasone is of benefit after cataract surgery.
abstract: Following cataract extraction, the intraocular inflammatory response is particularly marked in some patients, who then require more intensive post-operative care. This prospective randomised double-masked controlled trial of 246 patients undergoing cataract extraction assessed the efficacy and safety of a prophylactic subconjunctival injection of betamethasone (Betnesol, Glaxo) in improving the post-operative course. Betamethasone injected subconjunctivally at the end of cataract extraction significantly reduces anterior segment inflammation (p < 0.05) on the first post-operative day. It also reduces the need for additional steroid treatment and in-patient stay (p < 0.05). The benefits are most marked in those patients prone to a greater inflammatory response: especially those with previous intraocular inflammation (p < 0.01), but also those with racial pigmentation or difficult surgery. There was no evidence of adverse effects following betamethasone; in particular there was no endophthalmitis or steroid-induced elevation of intraocular pressure. We therefore conclude that subconjunctival injection of betamethasone is a practical, safe and effective means of improving the quality and efficiency of patient care.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, Greenwich District Hospital, London, UK.
authors.forename: M C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Corbett
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hingorani
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Boulton
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Shilling
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D001623:Betamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002387:Cataract Extraction; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005128:Eye Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000517:prevention & control; D007267:Injections / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D001623:Betamethasone