Visual recovery after phacoemulsification using topical anesthesia.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the speed of visual function recovery after phacoemulsification using topical anesthesia.


METHODS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
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Royal United Hospital, Bath, United Kingdom.
Bourne
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Baer
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D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000772:Anesthesia, Local / Q000379:methods*; D000779:Anesthetics, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage; D015350:Contrast Sensitivity / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007429:Intraocular Pressure / Q000502:physiology; D019654:Lens Implantation, Intraocular; D008297:Male; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; D018918:Phacoemulsification; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011680:Pupil / Q000502:physiology; D013748:Tetracaine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D013997:Time Factors; D014792:Visual Acuity / Q000502:physiology*
D000779:Anesthetics, Local; D013748:Tetracaine