Assessment of Age-related Cataract using Scheimpflug Imaging System and its Correlation with Phacoemulsification Parameters

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Phacoemulsification has become the preferred treatment for cataract removal throughout the world. Therefore, it is important to assess cataract pre-operatively which could lead to a better organised and customised operative plan. Aim: To evaluate correlation of age-related cataract using Scheimpflug imaging system (Pentacam) with parameters employed during phacoemulsification. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted between February 2016 and July 2017 in the Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College, Amritsar, India. Hundred patients (100 eyes) with age-related cataract were enrolled in the study to assess cataract using Scheimpflug imaging (Pentacam) before surgery. Intraoperative parameters during phacoemulsification (ultrasonic power employed and time for which power was employed within the eye) were noted. Correlation of parameters of Scheimpflug imaging system i.e., Nuclear Lens Density (NLD), Average Lens Density (ALD) and Pentacam Nuclear Staging (PNS) score with phaco power and time used during surgery, were analysed using Pearson correlation analysis (r) and regression analysis. Statistical analysis of post-operative complications was done using student t-test. SPSS Version 17 software was used and p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: There were 55 males and 45 females. Parameters of Scheimpflug imaging system i.e., NLD, ALD and PNS score showed a positive correlation with phaco power (r=0.712; p<0.001, r=0.530; p<0.001, r=0.624; p<0.001 respectively, overall r=0.733) and time (r=0.842; p<0.00, r=0.653; p<0.001, r=0.679; p<0.001 respectively, overall r=0.852). Conclusion: Pre-operative evaluation of age-related cataract using Scheimpflug imaging system aptly predicted the parameters employed during phacoemulsification.

Keywords

• lens density
• pentacam
• phacodynamics