[Corneal astigmatism following cataract operations].

Following a description of the surgical technique of wound opening and closure for planned extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and posterior chamber lens implantation, the results, with regard to postoperative corneal astigmatism, are analyzed and discussed. In a prospective study a total of 720 cases was divided into 2 groups; the Terry surgical keratometer was used in Group I, while in Group II no postoperative measurements were performed. The results achieved in the two groups by 3 experienced surgeons were compared. Only one surgeon achieved keratometer readings which were statistically significantly lower in the early and late postoperative periods in Group I as compared to Group II. The percentage of cases with final corneal astigmatism of 2 D or less in the early and late postoperative period was higher in Group I - in which the Terry keratometer was used - than in Group II. The numerous factors influencing final postoperative corneal astigmatism are discussed.