Astigmatically neutral sutured small incision.

The desire for rapid visual rehabilitation following phacoemulsification for cataract and intraocular lens implantation has stimulated a quest for an "astigmatically neutral" incision. We have evaluated an underemphasized aspect of wound closure technique for a small incision wound (5.1 mm). The essential element of the technique is reinflation of the anterior chamber after a nylon shoelace suture is placed and tied once but before the knot is finally secured. The resulting changes in corneal curvature are analyzed. Results are presented at two weeks and six weeks postoperatively. We have termed this technique post-suture inflation.