Purpose: To quantify the intraocular inflammation, measured using laser flare photometry (LFP), after Nd:YAG capsulotomy and compare the effects of different topical anti-inflammatory regimes.Methods: A single-center, prospective, randomized controlled study, which included 90 eyes of 90 patients with visually significant posterior capsular opacification. In all patients, Nd:YAG capsulotomy was done and was then randomized into three groups: (A) Topical betamethasone 0.1%; (B) Topical nepafenac 0.1%; and (C) Control group: did not receive any anti-inflammatory agent post capsulotomy.Results: There was a significant increase in the mean LFP values 2 h following laser capsulotomy (p < 0.001) and then declined gradually and came back to pre-laser values by 2 weeks in all three groups. The mean LFP values, central macular thickness, and best corrected visual acuity were comparable among groups. None developed central macular edema.Conclusion: Intraocular inflammation following Nd:YAG capsulotomies is minimal and transient. Routine use of prophylactic anti-inflammatory agents may be avoided.
Keywords: Cataract surgery; YAG cap; YAG capsulotomy; laser flare photometry; posterior capsular opacification.