Intraocular Pressure in Eyes with Intraocular Lens Dislocation and Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome.

PURPOSE

To investigate intraocular pressure in eyes with intraocular lens subluxation and pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

METHODS

In this retrospective study conducted at one eye centre (tazz) in Zurich, Switzerland, we reviewed 85 eyes with intraocular lens subluxation and pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Intraocular lens exchange was carried out by two surgeons between 03/2016 and 12/2019 (45 months). Information on baseline characteristics and diagnosis of glaucoma was recorded. Intraocular pressure and best-corrected visual acuity were analysed preoperatively and at five time points up to 12 months after lens exchange. Data on antiglaucomatous medication was collected before surgery and at two different time points after surgery. Postoperative pressure lowering procedures and complications were further analysed.

RESULTS

This study includes 85 pseudoexfoliation eyes with intraocular lens subluxation. The mean interval between cataract surgery and lens exchange was 8.9 ± 5.2 years. Intraocular pressure elevation in the event of intraocular lens subluxation was found in 54% (46/85) of eyes. Mean intraocular pressure decreased from 22.9 ± 9.4 mmHg preoperatively to 15.2 ± 3.4 mmHg at follow-up 12 months after lens exchange (p < 0.001). Postoperative topical antiglaucomatous drug requirements were comparable to preoperative levels (p = 0.520). Less systemic acetazolamide was required 12 months postoperatively (p = 0.018). A pressure lowering procedure was required in seven (8%) eyes in the postoperative period due to persistence of high intraocular pressure. Intermittent increase or persistence of high intraocular pressure occurred in 13 (15%) eyes.

CONCLUSION

This study emphasises the connection between acute pressure elevation and intraocular lens subluxation in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. Intraocular pressure decreases after lens exchange and decrease sustains for a postoperative period of 12 months. Postoperative pressure lowering procedures were not required in the majority of eyes. We therefore conclude that intraocular lens exchange is efficient in the management of lens subluxation and pressure elevation in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome.