Effect of Nd: YAG laser capsulotomy size on visual outcomes of the eye, intraocular pressure, and macular thickness

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study was to show the effect of neodymium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy size on visual outcomes of the eye, intraocular pressure (IOP), and macular thickness. Background Although Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy has been found to be safe and effective, events such as retinal detachment, cystoid macular edema, and rise in IOP tend to occur after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy. Materials and methods A total of 56 eyes of 56 patients were enrolled in this prospective comparative study with posterior capsular opacification following uncomplicated cataract surgery with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. All patients were examined before Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy and 1, 4, and 12 weeks after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy for best-corrected visual acuity (VA), IOP, and foveal thickness. Patients were divided into two groups based on the postoperative capsulotomy size: group 1, capsulotomy size less than 3.9 mm; group 2, capsulotomy size equal to or larger than 3.9 mm. Results We found significant improvement in VA in both groups, with no significant effect of capsulotomy size on the improvement in VA. IOP increased 1 week postoperatively in both groups, but IOP rise in group 2 was higher than in group 1; both groups had increased central foveal thickness at 1 week postoperatively. The degree of foveal thickening was similar in both groups. Conclusion Patients who underwent a larger capsulotomy size have more elevation in IOP. Rise in central foveal thickness was similar in large and small capsulotomy groups, and the improvement in VA was not affected by the capsulotomy size.