Predicted versus actual intraocular lens power in silicon-oil-filled eyes undergoing cataract extraction using automated intraoperative retinoscopy.

PURPOSE

To compare predicted intraocular lens (IOL) power obtained with adjusted ultrasound biometry versus actual power obtained with automated intraoperative retinoscopy (AIR) in eyes undergoing combined cataract extraction and silicon oil removal in the same session.

METHODS

Fifty eyes with significant cataract; requiring silicon removal were included. Preoperative ultrasonic biometry with adjusted velocity (980 m/s) was recorded. After silicon removal, AIR was done and IOL power was calculated and inserted. Postoperative refraction was recorded up to 3 months.

RESULTS

AIR was successfully obtained in all eyes. Significant correlation (p = 0.000, R = 0.91) was detected between mean power of predicted (15.8 ± 8.4) and implanted IOL (11.7 ± 8.5). Mean postoperative refraction was +0.53 ± 0.31 at 1 week, +0.40 ± 0.35 at 1 month and +0.12 ± 0.20 at 3 months. The difference was statistically significant in all time intervals. Myopic shift occurred in 37% of eyes at the third month.

CONCLUSIONS

AIR in combined cataract extraction and silicon oil removal is easy and provides predictable outcome in all eyes. It represents a bypass to all methods of biometry based on axial length measurement. Future correction formula based on adjusted ultrasound velocity can be a simple alternative and predictable method.