Exfoliation syndrome and extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of posterior chamber lens

Abstract

Extracapsular cataract extraction followed by implantation of a one-piece posterior chamber polymethylmethacrylate intraocular lens (IOL) into the capsular bag was performed in 25 eyes with exfoliation syndrome and 20 control eyes. The patients were investigated preoperatively and then 1 day, 1 week, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. Preoperatively, maximal pupil dilatation was significantly smaller in eyes with exfoliation syndrome compared to controls. During surgery the incidence of complications such as ruptures of the zonule or posterior lens capsule, were higher in eyes with exfoliation syndrome. Furthermore, postoperative complications, such as fibrinoid reaction anterior to the IOL followed by posterior synechias and cell deposits, were more common in eyes with exfoliation syndrome compared to control eyes. The results imply that compared to control eyes, eyes with exfoliation syndrome are likely to present more complications both during extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of intraocular lenses and postoperatively.