Intraocular pressure seven years after extracapsular cataract extraction and sulcus implantation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens.

Seven years after extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and sulcus implantation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens, we measured the intraocular pressure (IOP) in 28 eyes of 28 patients. The results were compared with the preoperative IOP and with the postoperative IOP at four months and 2 1/2 years. The mean IOP value seven years after surgery was 1.3 mm Hg lower than the preoperative mean value. No significant difference was found among the values at four months, 2 1/2 years, and seven years. One patient experienced a marked rise in IOP between 2 1/2 years and seven years and was excluded from the calculations. However, we could not tell whether it was a consequence of the cataract surgery. In this study, we found that IOP stabilized at a postoperative level that was significantly lower than the preoperative value and has remained there for seven years.