Abstract:

Objective  To compare the tear film function and complication between phacoemulsification (Phaco) and extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) in patients with dry eyes. Methods  38 patients(45 eyes) were in the Phaco group and 28 patients (30 eyes) were in the ECCE group. The tear film function, complications and final visual outcomes were analyzed before and after operation. Results  Of the 66 patients, 56 had age-related dry eyes and 10 had secondary Sjgren's syndrome. 60 eyes had predominant aqueous deficiency (Schirmer I score of 5.0?mm or less), and 15 had Schirmer scores between 6.0?mm and 9.0?mm.  The tearfilm breakup time was 5 seconds or less in 63 eyes and 6-9 seconds in 12 eyes. Postoperatively, 32 eyes had superficial punctate keratopathy and 25 had an epithelial defect. The final visual acuity was 1.0 in 40 eyes, 0.8 to 0.5 in 22 eyes, and 0.4 to 0.1 in 13 eyes. All the differences between the two groups had statistical significance（P＜0.05）. Conclusions  Phaco is safer and causes fewer complications in treatment of age-related dry eyes on patients with or without associated systemic disorders than ECCE.

Key words: Phacoemulsification; Extracapsular cataract extraction; Dry eyes; Tearfilm function; Complications