Cataract extraction as a means of treating postfiltration hypotony maculopathy
Sibayan, S.A.; Igarashi, S.; Kasahara, N.; Montenegro, M.H.; Simmons, R.J.; Simmons, R.B.; Smith, T.J.
Ophthalmic Surgery and Lasers 28(3): 241-243
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 1082-3069 PMID: 9076801 Document Number: 478899
Hypotony maculopathy may arise after glaucoma filtering surgery. This can be treated by inducing inflammation and scarring within the filter, with the aim of increasing intraocular pressure (IOP) and promoting resolution of maculopathy. Cataract extraction can promote such inflammation. Phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC IOL) implantation was performed in two consecutive patients with postfiltration hypotony maculopathy and preexisting cataracts. After cataract extraction, improvement of IOP, visual acuity, maculopathy, and metamorphopsia occurred in both patients. Cataract extraction can be beneficial in the management of postfiltration hypotony maculopathy.