Evaluation of endolight-assisted phacoemulsification in cataract with absent red reflex

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of cataract extraction in eyes with absent red reflex using anterior chamber endolight. Patients and methods This is a prospective interventional case series study that was performed on 32 eyes of 32 patients with cataract associated with absent red reflex. Phacovitrectomy was performed in all patients. An anterior chamber endolight, introduced through a paracentesis, was used to enhance the phacoemulsification technique. The effectiveness of the technique in facilitating the visualization of the lens structures during the procedure and in enhancing the easiness of the operation as well as the complications related to this technique were evaluated. In addition, the improvement in visual acuity in these patients after surgery was evaluated. Results No complications were reported during any of the operations. The endolight promptly enhanced the visualization of the lens structures especially the posterior capsule. The mean best corrected visual acuity significantly improved from 2±0.31 LogMAR preoperatively to 0.38±0.17 postoperatively after combined phacovitrectomy (P<0.001). Conclusion The endolight aided in improving the safety profile of phacoemulsification in cataract with absent red reflex by increasing the visibility of anterior chamber structures during the procedure.