The course after cataract extraction, intraocular lens implantation, and trabeculectomy for patients with diabetes.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the postoperative recovery of the anterior segment and the course of diabetic retinopathy following a combined procedure of an extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation and trabeculectomy in diabetic patients with glaucoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The records of diabetic patients with uncontrolled glaucoma and cataract, who underwent a combined procedure in one eye, were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

Eleven patients were included. The mean intraocular pressure and the amount of antiglaucomatous medications required to control it were both reduced postoperatively. Anterior segment complications included hyphema in 4 eyes (37%), fibrin formation in 4 eyes (37%), and posterior synechia in 3 eyes (27%). The hyphema resolved spontaneously and the fibrin disappeared following increased administration of steroids. Development of diabetic retinopathy occurred in 1 eye (9%). Cystoid macular edema without other evidence of diabetic retinopathy was observed in 1 eye (9%).

CONCLUSION

The control of intraocular pressure is improved in diabetic patients who have undergone this combined procedure. The postoperative course in these diabetic patients is similar to that previously described in the general population.