Laser flare-cell measurement of inflammation after uneventful extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation.
OBJECTIVE
To prospectively evaluate the inflammation response after uneventful extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.


METHODS
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alicante, Spain.


METHODS
Using a Kowa laser flare-cell meter, we measured cell and flare for 3 months postoperatively in 550 eyes of 435 consecutive patients who had uneventful ECCE and IOL implantation. We compared the results in terms of the type of IOL implanted.


RESULTS
The amount of inflammation varied, but not significantly, according to the IOL type. The highest level of flare and cell always occurred the day following surgery regardless of which IOL was used. A small increase in flare was observed on the 30th day.


CONCLUSIONS
Inflammation after uncomplicated ECCE, as measured with a laser flare-cell meter, resolved by 3 months and was not significantly affected by the type of IOL implanted. More sensitive instruments should be developed to measure inflammation immediately after surgery.
Alió
J L
JL
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alicante, Spain.
Sayans
J A
JA
Chipont
E
E
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000867:Anterior Chamber / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002452:Cell Count / Q000379:methods; D009877:Endophthalmitis / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D007903:Lens Capsule, Crystalline / Q000601:surgery*; D007910:Lenses, Intraocular / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011446:Prospective Studies