Outcomes of phacoemulsification and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation in Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis

PURPOSE: To evaluate the visual outcomes and complications of phacoemulsification (PE) and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, (PC IOL) in patients with Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHIC). SETTING: Private clinic and an academic hospital. METHODS: In this noncomparative interventional case series, existing data for 41 eyes of 40 consecutive patients clinically diagnosed with FHIC and cataract were studied retrospectively. Scleral tunnel PE and in-the-bag IOL implantation were performed in all cases. Preoperative and postoperative visual acuities and intraoperative and postoperative complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Twenty-four male and 16 female patients aged 12 years to 70 (SD) (mean 35 +/- 12 years) were operated on and followed for 17.8 +/- 8.7 months. Preoperatively, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was less than 20/40 in all patients, which improved to 20/40 or better after surgery. Twenty-two eyes (53.6%) achieved BCVA of 20/20. The major cause of postoperative visual acuity less than 20/20 was vitreous haze. There were no major intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, mild anterior chamber fibrin reaction occurred in 4 patients (9.7%), IOL deposits occurred in 11 eyes (26.8%), and decentration was observed in 1 eye. During follow-up, 6 eyes (14.6%) developed posterior capsule opacification requiring a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy. There was 1 case of clinical cystoid macular edema that resolved with medication. There were no cases of posterior synechias, postoperative glaucoma, or retinal detachment. CONCLUSION: Phacoemulsification with PC IOL implantation is a safe procedure with good visual outcomes in patients with FHIC and cataract.