intraoperative complications during phacoemulsification in myopic eyes

Background: To assess the incidence of intraoperative complications during phacoemulsification in myopic eyes such as rupture of posterior capsule, vitreous loss, intraoperative haemorrhage and posterior dislocation of nucleus.

Methods: In this retrospective study we analyzed medical records of all cataract operations between January 1, 2003 and December 31, 2003 at the Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital Maribor. We treated 52 myopic eyes from 40 patients with axial length more than 24.5 mm. Exclusions criteria were other ocular pathology, preceding ocular operation, combined operation of cataract and glaucoma and serious systemic disease. Standard phacoemulsification was done with clear cornea cut and soft foldable intraocular lens (IOL) was implanted in the capsular bag.

Results: In 52 operated eyes none of the observed complications occurred.

Conclusions: Phacoemulsification in myopic eyes without any previous pathology is a safe surgical procedure.