Epithelial downgrowth after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery

Abstract

Purpose: To present the case of a 72-year-old female with epithelial downgrowth after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. Observations: The patient previously underwent YAG vitreolysis after uncomplicated femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and presented 1 year later with epithelial downgrowth causing complete pupillary block and severe angle closure glaucoma. Subsequent management with nd:YAG peripheral iridotomies failed rapidly leading to a confusing presentation with a flat anterior chamber and high intraocular pressure ultimately requiring surgical management. Conclusions: We describe the occurrence of epithelial downgrowth after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and illustrate the utility of ultrasound biomicroscopy to differentiate between severe pupillary block and malignant glaucoma. Keywords: Epithelial downgrowth, Epithelial ingrowth, Pupillary membrane, nd:YAG capsulotomy, Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, Ultrasound biomicroscopy, Pupillary block, Secondary angle closure glaucoma