Intracameral phenylephrine to prevent floppy iris syndrome during cataract surgery in patients on tamsulosin

Purpose To describe the use of intracameral phenylephrine to prevent the floppy iris syndrome seen in patients who are on the drug tamsulosin for benign prostatic hypertrophy, during cataract surgery. Setting Prince Charles Eye Unit, King Edward VII Hospital, Windsor, Berkshire, UK. Method Seven patients who were on systemic tamsulosin for benign prostatic hypertrophy received intracameral phenylephrine before capsulorexhis during their cataract surgery. Results There was a significant reduction in the amount of mobility of the iris, reduction in the expected fluttering, and sustained papillary dilatation. Conclusion Intracameral phenylephrine is a simple and effective tool to prevent the effects of floppy iris syndrome in those patients undergoing cataract surgery who are on systemic tamsulosin.