Research Abstract
Performing phacoemulsification in eyes with corneal opacities is
challenging even with expert surgeons. Several techniques have
been described to improve intraoperative visualization through
opacified corneas. This retrospective interventional case series
included 10 eyes of 10 patients with coexisting senile cataract
and corneal opacity who underwent phacoemulsification with
intraocular lens (IOL) implantation under slit illumination of the
surgical microscope. Uneventful phacoemulsification with IOL
implantation was achieved in all eyes without intraoperative
complications. Slit illumination reduced the light scattering and
reflection from the corneal opacity, enhanced the red reflex, and
improved depth perception simultaneously in different steps of
phacoemulsification. Phacoemulsification was safely performed
in eyes with corneal opacity under slit illumination of the surgical
microscope. It can be considered as a viable option for improving
intraoperative visualization in patients with corneal opacities
without additional instrumentation.
Research Authors
Mahmoud Fathy Rateb, MD, Mohamed Shehata Hussien, MD, Dalia Tohamy, MD, Salma Mohamed Kedwany, MD, FRCSG
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