Cataract Extraction After Filtering Operations

Abstract

The site of incision for cataract extraction after filtering operations has been a subject of prolonged debate. This presents a serious problem because of the close relationship to delayed reformation of the anterior chamber and failure of the filtering cicatrix with recurrence of glaucoma. The literature was reviewed, and a technique for cataract extraction through a perpendicular incision made superiorly in clear cornea with no conjunctival flap was described by one of us (H.G.S.) in 1956.¹Encouraging results from operating upon 22 eyes were reported. The present paper describes certain modifications of that technique and the results in operating on 65 eyes. These results are compared also with extraction by 2 other methods: (1) a 2-plane incision, as for conventional cataract extraction, made inferiorly with a small conjunctivalcorneal flap; and (2) the same incision made superiorly, the filtering operation having been done inferiorly to permit routine cataract extraction above.