A method of reporting macular edema after cataract surgery using optical coherence tomography

Retina. 2008 Jun;28(6):870-6. doi: 10.1097/IAE.0b013e318169d04e.

Abstract

Objective: To validate a method of reporting postcataract macular edema (ME) using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods: : Data were analyzed for 130 eyes followed prospectively for ME after uncomplicated cataract surgery. Each eye underwent OCT within 4 weeks before surgery and at 1 month and 3 months after surgery. ME was defined by observation of cystoid changes by OCT.

Results: Incidence of ME was 14% (95% confidence interval, 8-20). Average increase in baseline center point thickness (CPT) +/- SD at 1 month for eyes with and without ME was 202 +/- 113 microm and 8 +/- 19 microm, respectively (P < 0.001), which resulted in a 1-letter loss (-0.02 logMAR [logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution]) and a 3-line gain (0.29 logMAR) in vision, respectively (P < 0.001). Percent change in baseline CPT +/- SD for eyes with and without ME was 115 +/- 67% and 6 +/- 11%, respectively (P < 0.001). A > or =40% increase in baseline CPT accurately determined 100% of eyes with ME and 99% of eyes without ME.

Conclusions: A > or =40% increase in baseline CPT, determined by OCT, offers a valid and objective method of reporting clinically relevant postcataract ME. Standardized reporting of postcataract ME would allow objective assessment and comparison of treatment outcomes among clinical studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Capsulorhexis*
  • Confidence Intervals
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Lens Implantation, Intraocular*
  • Macular Edema / diagnosis*
  • Macular Edema / etiology
  • Male
  • Phacoemulsification*
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence / methods*