Posters

Effect of cataract extraction on retinal sensitivity measurements using microperimetry (Micro Perimeter 3)

Poster Details

First Author: S. Palkovits AUSTRIA

Co Author(s):    N. Hirnschall   S. Georgiev   O. Findl              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Microperimetry is a method to assess retinal sensitivity in the central visual field. This technique combines perimetry with fundus photography to correlate retinal sensitivity with morphology, so called “fundus-related perimetry”. Increasing lens opacity leads to decreased retinal sensitivity, but to what extent cataract influences microperimetry findings has yet to be clarified. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of cataract extraction on retinal sensitivity measurements using the microperimetry. Furthermore, correlation analyses between the change in retinal sensitivity and grade and type of cataract were performed.

Setting:

Hanusch Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology

Methods:

This prospective, monocenter study included patients scheduled for cataract surgery. Preoperative microperimetry measurements were performed one week before and one months after surgery, respectively. ETDRS visual acuity was tested at both study visits. Lens opacity was graded using the LOCS III classification scale. For microperimetry the MP3 System (Nidek Inc., Japan) was used. Introduction of full-automatic measurements, improved motion tracking and increased variability of available patters are important features of this new device. As in conventional perimetry, the patients were asked to respond to specific light stimulation with a handheld trigger.

Results:

Twenty patients were recruited for this study. All three most common types of cataract (nuclear, cortical and posterior supcapsular) were included as well as soft and dense cataracts. None of the patients had white, or Morgagnian cataract. Cataract extraction led to an increase in ETDRS visual acuity. Preliminary microperimetry readings suggest an increase in retinal sensitivity after cataract extraction. Correlation between visual acuity, cataract density and microperimetry findings will be presented at the meeting.

Conclusions:

The present study showed that media opacity like cataract influences retinal microperimetry readings. Further studies with a larger sample size, however, are needed to elucidate this finding.

Financial Disclosure:

NONE