Facilitating Role of the 3D Viewing System in Tilted Microscope Positions for Cataract Surgery in Patients Unable to Lie Flat

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the utility of the 3D viewing system in tilted microscope positions for the performance of cataract surgery in challenging positions, for patients with difficulty remaining supine. Methods: Prospective, single-center, single-surgeon, consecutive case series of patients undergoing surgery in an inclined position. Results: 21 eyes of 15 patients who had undergone surgery at inclined positions at angles of 20° to 80°, with a mean angle of 47.62°. Surgeon comfort was considered to be globally good. The surgeon rated red reflex perception and the impression of depth as good and stable in all cases. The operating time was slightly longer for patients inclined at angles of more than 50°. On the first day after surgery, BSCVA was 20/25 or better in all cases. No ocular complications occurred in any of the interventions. Conclusions: Due to the ocular-free design of the 3D system, the surgical procedure and the positioning of the surgeon remained almost identical to that for patients undergoing surgery in a supine position, maintaining the safety of the standard surgical approach.