Evaluation of cataract surgery in intermediate uveitis

Abstract

Background and objective: The authors analyzed the results of cataract surgery performed on patients with intermediate uveitis from January 1990 through January 1997.

Materials and methods: Fifty-two eyes of 44 patients with intermediate uveitis underwent cataract surgery during this period. These patients were evaluated with respect to duration of intermediate uveitis, treatment regimen, intraoperative complications and final visual results.

Results: Visual acuity improved following surgery in 94.2% eyes and 71.2% eyes achieved a final visual acuity better than or equal to 20/60. Intraocular lens implantation accompanied the surgery in 24 eyes. Regional and systemic steroids were required for control of inflammation. The factors that limited visual recovery were severe cystoid macular edema, epiretinal membrane formation, and secondary retinal detachment. Recurrence of uveitis was noted in 6 cases.

Conclusion: Absolute control of inflammation, atraumatic surgery, and regular postoperative follow-up can improve the results of cataract extraction. Intraocular lens implantation in selected cases is well tolerated with good visual results.