Intraocular pressure in the first days after implantation of posterior chamber lenses with the use of sodium hyaluronate (Healon®)

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Abstract
Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured before and 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after extracapsular cataract extraction with implantation of a posterior chambers lens in 3 groups of patients. Group I (30 patients): Sodium hyaluronate (Healon) was used during anterior capsulotomy and lens implantation and was aspirated at the end of surgery. Group II (22 patients): Healon as in group I + 500 mg acetazolamide at the end of surgery. Group III (17 patients): BSS and/or air was used instead of Healon during surgery. In all groups statistically significant rises in IOP after 6 h were followed by significant falls in the remaining post-operative period. The rise and subsequent fall in IOP was significantly greater in group I than in group III. Acetazolamide in group II did not prevent excessive rises in IOP. Aspiration probably shortens the period of Healon-induced hypertension. We recommend a meticulous aspiration of Healon at the end of surgery.