Early ocular hypertension after cataract extraction

Abstract

Ocular hypertension within hours after surgery was demonstrated in every one of twenty consecutive uncomplicated cataract extractions without α-chymotrypsin. Intraocular pressures rose acutely to a maximum level 2-4 times the preoperative level (range 26-50 mm. Hg) at a mean time of 6-8 hrs after surgery. Pain and corneal oedema were observed at the time of the rise in intraocular pressure, but did not continue despite persistent high intraocular pressures. Although the operations were performed in two series by surgeons in separate centres and in nine cases an intraocular acrylic lens was sutured to the iris, neither of these two factors produced significant differences in the results. The possible mechanisms and therapeutic consequences of the postoperative hypertension phenomenon are discussed. It is emphasized that this phenomenon is made manifest by water-tight incision closure and that less secure incision closure may permit this rise in pressure to be a factor in commonpostoperative complications.