A clinical study on the intraocular pressure changes following Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy

Abstract

Posterior capsular opacification (PCO) is the most frequent late postoperative complication following cataract surgery. Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy remains the cornerstone of treatment of PCO. However, it can be associated with significant complications like intraocular pressure(IOP) rise, lens pitting, retinal detachment etc. Raised IOP is a common complication that occurs post laser.To assess the IOP changes after Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy in patients diagnosed with PCO.Prospective follow up hospital based study between October 2018 -April 2020.50 patients attending the Ophthalmology OPD at a tertiary care hospital with visually significant PCO after cataract extraction were selected. Following an written consent, patients underwent laser and the number of shots, energy levels were recorded. They were followed up immediately, one, two hours and one week for IOP changes, vision improvement and complications.SPSS software v.23 and Microsoft office 2007. Tests used were Chi- square, ANOVA and F test.Post laser, there was a significant rise of mean IOP with increasing time, energy and number of shots and it reduced to near baseline levels at the end of one week. BCVA at one week was in the range of 6/24p to 6/6. Complications were transient iritis (4%), vitritis(2%) and IOL pitting (2%).In majority, IOP returned to near baseline levels at the end of one week. High skill, regular follow ups, proper focusing of laser, lesser number of shots and energy levels can reduce the incidence of complications.