Long-term complications of extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, in Nigeria.

AIM

To identify the long-term complications of extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation surgery, in the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, Nigeria.

METHODS

The study is a retrospective review of patients that have had extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, in the National Eye Centre, Kaduna, Nigeria from January 1996 to December 1999. The medical records of all patients that satisfy these criteria were retrieved. Information collected included age, sex, eye operated upon, intra-operative complications, pre-operative visual acuity and last follow-up, and long-term post-operative complications.

RESULT

Medical records of only 66 patients (71 eyes) that maintained a minimum follow-up of at least one year were retrievable. No major intra-operative complications were recorded. Only one eye had posterior capsule rent. Ninety percent of the operated eyes had vision of 6/60 or better one year post-operative. The overall visual outcome (WHO criteria) was borderline. Of the corrected eyes, the consultants have a statistically significantly better outcome than residents. The following post-operative complications were recorded in 25 (35.2%) eyes: pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (11.3%); posterior capsular opacification (7.0%); persistent inflammation (7.0%); secondary glaucoma (2.8%); pupil distortion (5.6%); and ocular hypotony (1.4%).

CONCLUSION

ECCE + PC-IOL microsurgery is associated with long-term complications like PBK (Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy) and PCO (Posterior capsular opacification). Their management creates new demands in our country. This study is limited by the small number of eyes eligible for review at least one year after surgery.