[A dynamic study on the surgically induced astigmatism after phacoemulsification through three different-sized scleral tunnel incisions].

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To compare the changes in the values and directions of surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after phacoemulsification with three different-sized scleral tunnel incisions and to evaluate their clinical results. METHODS: The patients were divided into three groups; the length of the scleral tunnel incision was 3.2, 5.5 and 7.0 mm respectively in A, B and C groups. Keratometry measurements were obtained preoperatively, at postoperative 1 week, 1 month and 6 months respectively. SIAs were analyzed by "Cravy vector method". The mean SIA and uncorrected visual acuity were compared among the groups up to 6 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Eyes in A group displayed significantly less mean SIA and better uncorrected visual acuity than B and C groups at 1 week postoperatively (P < 0.05), but there were no significant differences between any groups at 1 month, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively (P > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the mean SIA and uncorrected visual acuity between B and C groups throughout the whole study period (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: SIAs in eyes of 3.2 mm incision group of phacoemulsification are less and more stable; a better and quicker rehabilitation of uncorrected visual acuity can be obtained in the early postoperative period.