Fluid-filled interface only slightly increases IOP in cataract surgery

Using a fluid-filled interface only slightly increases IOP in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery.

Dr Tim Schultz et al., Centre for Vision Science, Ruhr University Eye Clinic, Bochum, Germany, evaluated 100 eyes that had undergone successful tonometry and laser cataract surgery.

Absolute IOP was measured preoperatively and postoperatively using a modified Schiotz tonometer with and without a fluid-filled interface.

Mean preoperative IOP was 15.6 mmHg ± 2.5 SD but it rose to 25.9 ± 5.0 mmHg after application of the suction ring and vacuum. The IOP remained constant even after the cataract laser procedure. After the suction ring was removed the mean IOP was 19.1 ± 4.4 mmHg and one hour after surgery the IOP did not significantly differ to preoperative values.

These results are in contrast to other studies demonstrating a higher IOP rise with alternative applanation interfaces and indicate the potential use of the fluid-filled interface on older cataract patients with a lower risk of increasing IOP.

The abstract can be read in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.