Outcome of phaco incision on steepest meridian in eyes with pre existing astigmatism

ABSTRACT

To determine keratometric outcome of a 5.5mm self sealing incision on the steepest meridian in eyes with preexisting astigmatism. A prospective study was carried out on 35 eyes with preexisting, with or against the rule astigmatism of 1.5-3.0 D. Bimanual phaco was performed using the incisions of 1.5mm, each approximately 120 degrees apart. The IOL was implanted through a third self sealing limbal incision created on the steepest meridian, which was assessed preoperatively by keratometeric readings. Postoperative automated keratometery was recorded at 12 weeks. The average reduction of pre-existing against and with the rule astigmatism was 1.15 [SD = 0.33] and 1.47 [SD = 0.32] respectively. It is possible to achieve negligible or low astigmatic outcomes in eyes with pre-existing with or against the rule astigmatism by predetermining the steepest meridian and placing a third incision of around 5.5mm on the respective meridian