The Results of Phacoemulsification and Toric Intraocular Lens Implantation in Patients with High Astigmatism and Cataract

Purpose: To report the results of phacoemulsification and toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in patients with cataract and high astigmatism. Material and Method: Medical records of 21 eyes of 17 patients (6 men, 11 women) with 1,5 diopter (D) or more corneal astigmatism who underwent phacoemulsification and foldable hydrophobic acrylic toric intraocular lens implantation at Baskent University, Department of Ophthalmology between 2008 and 2011 were reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative 1-month data were recorded and compared for best corrected log Mar visual acuity (BCVA), and corneal and refractive cylinder powers. Toric IOL axis shift was also evaluated at postoperative 3 months. Results: The average age of the patients was 63.0 +/- 6.9 years. The mean follow-up duration was 17.9 +/- 4.8 months (range, 12-28). The mean preoperative BCVA and refractive cylinder were 0.47 +/- 0.3 (range, 0.3-2.0, log -Mar) and 3.11 +/- 1.32 D, respectively. Postoperative BCVA increased to a mean of 0.14 +/- 0.27 (range, 0.1-1.0, log -Mar), while refractive cylinder power decreased to a mean of 1.00 +/- 0.98 at the end of follow-up. Discussion: Toric IOL implantation is an effective surgical alternative in patients with high astigmatism and cataract. It is possible to correct preexisting astigmatism and to achieve visual recovery with toric IOL implantation with a good preoperative planning and proper surgical technique. (Turk J Ophthalmol 2012; 42: 116-9)