Relationship between postoperative refractive outcomes and cataract density: Multiple regression analysis

PurposeTo evaluate the relationship between cataract density and the deviation from the predicted refraction.SettingDepartment of Ophthalmology, Nara Medical University, Kashihara, Japan.MethodsAxial length (AL) was measured in eyes with mainly nuclear cataract using partial coherence interferometry (IOLMaster). The postoperative AL was measured in pseudophakic mode. The AL difference was calculated by subtracting the postoperative AL from the preoperative AL. Cataract density was measured with the pupil dilated using anterior segment Scheimpflug imaging (EAS-1000). The predicted postoperative refraction was calculated using the SRK/T formula. The subjective refraction 3 months postoperatively was also measured. The mean absolute prediction error (MAE) (mean of absolute difference between predicted postoperative refraction and spherical equivalent of postoperative subjective refraction) was calculated. The relationship between the MAE and cataract density, age, preoperative visual acuity, anterior chamber depth, corneal radius of curvature, and AL difference was evaluated using multiple regression analysis.ResultsIn the 96 eyes evaluated, the MAE was correlated with cataract density (r = 0.37, P = .001) and the AL difference (r = 0.34, P = .003) but not with the other parameters. The AL difference was correlated with cataract density (r = 0.53, P<.0001).ConclusionThe postoperative refractive outcome was affected by cataract density. This should be taken into consideration in eyes with a higher density cataract.Financial DisclosureNo author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.