ABSTRACT
AIM: To investigate the efficacy of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) for treatment of fibrinous membranes following cataract surgery.METHODS: 25μg of TPA was injected into the anterior chamber of 15 pseudophakic eyes with moderate to severe fibrinous membranes that developed after cataract surgery.Simultaneously, topical corticosteroid and cycloplegic therapy was continued. Routine follow-up included slit lamp examination and intraocular pressure measurement.RESULTS: Injection of the solution of tissue plasminogen activator into anterior chamber of 15 eyes resulted in complete dissolution of the fibrinous membranes in 9 (60.0%)eyes after 2 hours, and 11 (73.3%) eyes within 1 day. In 3eyes, within a few days after injection, fibrinous membrane recurred. Increased anterior chamber reaction (P=0.54) and corneal edema (P =0.083) were seen after 24hours. No evidence of toxicity was observed as measured by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and intraocular pressure. Finally, expectable stable result was obtained in all of the eyes.CONCLUSION: Safety and high efficacy of TPA in the treatment of fibrinous membranes after cataract surgery are confirmed.