A comparison of topical diclofenac with prednisolone for postcataract inflammation.

OBJECTIVE

To compare diclofenac sodium with prednisolone acetate for the control of postoperative inflammation after cataract surgery.

DESIGN

Fifty-two patients undergoing phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation were randomly assigned to receive either 0.1% diclofenac eye drops or 1% prednisolone eye drops as their postoperative anti-inflammatory medication. The patients were examined 1 day (baseline), 1 week, and 1 month after surgery. Postoperative inflammation was evaluated subjectively by slit-lamp assessment of cell and flare and objectively by measurement of cell and flare with a laser cell and flare meter.

RESULTS

At each visit, there was no statistically significant difference in postoperative inflammation either by slit-lamp assessment or with the laser cell and flare meter for the two treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

In the dosage used, diclofenac was as effective an anti-inflammatory agent for uncomplicated post-cataract inflammation as prednisolone.