Study of role of intraoperative keratoscopy in management of astigmatism in extracapsular cataract extraction [ECCE] with PCIOL

Abstract

Aim:To evaluate and to obtain minimum degree of postoperative astigmatism in 20 cases of senile cataract using Singh's Keratoscope and finally compare the results with a control group .Methods A cross sectional analytical study was done on 40 patients operated for cataract.40 patients operated with Extracapsular Cataract Extraction [ECCE] and posterior chamber intraocular lens were equally divided into two groups. In Group A, intra-operative keratoscopy was done, using Singh's keratoscope, while in Group B this procedure was not done and served as comparison group. All possible parameters like type, length and site of cataract incision surgical technique, design of lens implant, suture material and suturing technique were similar in both the groups. Results : Final astigmatism noted at 12 weeks showed that in Group A it ranged from 0 to 2 Dioptres with a mean of 0.85 D and P value of less than 0.01 which is statistically highly significant while in Group B it ranged from 0.5 to 5 D with a mean of 2.275 D.Conclusion Singh's keratoscope is low cost instrument, easy to use, gives simple interpretation both on the table and can also be used postoperatively to follow the variation and monitor the conrneal curvature and wound healing in these cases. This method and instrument is an extremely useful in the prevention of high postoperative astigmatism, more so after intraocular lens implant surgery giving rapid visual rehabilitation and satisfaction both the patient and operating surgeon.