Cystoid macular edema following extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation.

The outcome of clinical cystoid macular edema (CME) was studied in 20 symptomatic eyes in which extracapsular cataract extraction and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation had been performed. Resolution of symptoms and apparent resolution of the macular edema were observed in 18 (90%) of the 20 cases. Clearing occurred within one year in 14 (78%) of these 18 eyes and in 17 (94%) within two years. In all eyes in which macular edema resolved, visual acuity returned to 20/40 or better. This study suggests that clinical cystoid macular edema occurring in association with a posterior chamber intraocular lens has a relatively favorable course.