Phakic anterior chamber intraocular lenses in the management of high myopia

Abstract EN

bjective: To study the clinical and optical results and safety of anterior chamber phakic intraocular lenses in patients with high myopia.

Design: Longitudinal prospective experimental study.

Patients: 17 eyes of 11 patients with myopia ranging between -10.5 to -24 D.

Setting: Department of ophthalmology, Assiut University Hospital, during the period from 1.2002 to 8.2003.

Methods: The following parameters were studied before the operation, after 1 week, 1 month, 6 months and one year: uncorrected visual acuity , best spectacle corrected visual acuity, refraction, spherical equivalent, astigmatism, intraocular pressure, pupillary ovalizaiion, and central corneal thickness.

Endothelial cell count was done before surgery and one year after surgery.

Results: Uncorrected visual acuity, best spectacle corrected visual acuity, refraction and spherical equivalent showed statistically significant improvement, which lasted throughout the one-year follow-up.

Temporary changes in intraocular pressure, central corneal thickness and astigmatism were noted, but were restored later to mean preoperative levels.

Endothelial cell count decreased significantly form preoperative levels but in no case was less than 2000/mm2.

In one case, the lens had to be explanted because of chronic inflammatory reaction.

Conclusion: Phakic anterior chamber intraocular lens is a promising method for patients with high myopia.

Further research is needed to confirm long-term safety.