Early changes in corneal edema following torsional phacoemulsification using anterior segment optical coherence tomography and Scheimpflug photography.

PURPOSE

To assess corneal edema after torsional phacoemulsification using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and Scheimpflug photography (Pentacam).

METHODS

Seventy-six eyes with cataract surgery were randomized into 2 groups: a 2.2 mm micro-coaxial incision group (n = 37) and a 2.8 mm standard incision group (n = 39). Patients were examined preoperatively and at 1 day, 1 week and 1 month postoperatively. Incision architecture and pachymetry at the wound level were measured by AS-OCT. The corneal volume within 3.0 and 10.0 mm circles of the cornea was measured using Pentacam.

RESULTS

The cumulative dissipated energy (CDE) was lower in the micro-coaxial incision (2.2 mm) group than in the standard incision (2.8 mm) group (P = 0.043). Corneal edema measurements showed less corneal thickness at the endothelial side of the incision on postoperative day 1 in the micro-incision group (1061 ± 76 vs. 1153 ± 97 μm, P = 0.041). The corneal volume within the 10.0 mm circle was less on postoperative day 1 in the micro-incision group (63.75 ± 4.83 vs. 65.97 ± 4.52 mm(3), P = 0.035). The endothelial cell count did not change significantly throughout the study.

CONCLUSION

The micro-coaxial 2.2 mm incision may incur slightly less damage than the 2.8 mm standard incision in the context of torsional phacoemulsification. Observation of corneal morphology and damage using AS-OCT and Pentacam can be helpful in the evaluation and quantification of fine corneal edema.