[Corneal astigmatism after tunnel incision for cataract extraction].

PURPOSE

To evaluate the development of astigmatism after cataract extraction depending on the kind of incision

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Astigmatism was examined in 107 eyes of 92 patients, who underwent cataract extraction, mostly with IOL's implantation. In 52 eyes phacoemulsification with tunnel incision, measuring 5 mm in 27 and 8 mm in 25, was performed. In the control group of 55 eyes incision with scleral flap measured 2/5 of the corneal circumference. In cases with 5 mm incisions no sutures were used, in 8 mm incisions wounds were closed with single sutures and in control group the double continuous sutures were applied. Astigmatism was measured in two days, one week, four weeks and 3 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Post-operative astigmatism decreased gradually and after 3 months was average 0.14 D in the eyes without sutures, 0.68 D in those with single ones and 1.78 D in the control group.