In vivo evaluation of corneal endothelial function following cataract surgery.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To quantify corneal endothelial function measured in vivo following extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL) implantation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Endothelial function was assessed in 18 patients using recovery of the corneal hydration rate following induced cornea swelling before and after ECCE and PC IOL implantation.

RESULTS

The mean percentage recovery per hour (PRPH) showed a significant decrease at 12 and 24 weeks after surgery compared with before surgery (P < .01). A decrease in PRPH of more than 5% was observed in 55.6% and 66.7% of the eyes at 12 and 24 weeks after surgery, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

PRPH measured in vivo demonstrates decreased endothelial function following ECCE and PC IOL implantation. The PRPH measures even slight changes in endothelial function and could be useful in evaluating endothelial damage.