Automated vitrector-assisted iridectomy and phacoemulsification in eyes with coexisting cataract and adherent leucomas.
OBJECTIVE
To describe a surgical technique as an alternative to allograft corneal transplantation for management of cases with cataract and corneal opacity.


METHODS
Seven eyes of seven patients with adherent leucomas and cataract underwent phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. An automated vitrector was used to release the adherent leucoma and create an optical iridectomy at the start of surgery. Phacoemulsification with IOL implantation was performed in all eyes. The release of the iris adherence along with creation of an optical iridectomy improved visualization during phacoemulsification.


RESULTS
Phacoemulsification and IOL implantation could be performed successfully in all seven eyes. The median best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 1/60 (range: (light perception) 6/36) preoperatively to 6/18 (range: 6/36-6/12) at last follow-up (average: 41 days).


CONCLUSIONS
This surgical technique is a viable option in cases with partial corneal opacification with coexisting cataract.
Agarwal
T
T
Department of Ophthalmology, Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. drtushar@gmail.com
Jhanji
V
V
Dutta
P
P
Titiyal
J S
JS
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002386:Cataract / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D003318:Corneal Opacity / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D032801:Iridectomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D019654:Lens Implantation, Intraocular; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018918:Phacoemulsification; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014792:Visual Acuity; D014821:Vitrectomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods