Beyond the Blur: Clinical Outcomes of Nd: YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy Intraocular Pressure, Refraction, Anterior Chamber Depth, and Macular Thickness

Abstract

Background: Nd: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy is a commonly performed procedure to treat posterior capsular opacification following cataract surgery. While the procedure is known to effectively improve visual acuity, its potential impact on Intraocular Pressure (IOP), refraction, Anterior Chamber Depth (ACD), and macular thickness remains a subject of debate. This study aims to investigate the effects of Nd: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy on these ocular parameters. Methods: This study was designed as a prospective analysis conducted at a tertiary eye care center on patients who underwent Nd: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy between January 2020 and December 2020. Preoperative and postoperative measurements of IOP, refraction, ACD, and macular thickness were collected and compared. Statistical analyses were performed using paired t-tests, and p-values<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 30 eyes from 25 patients (mean age, 65.4±8.2 years) were included in the analysis. Following Nd: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy, the mean IOP from 15.2±2.3 mmHg to 17.0±2.7 mmHg (p<0.001). The refractive status showed a mean myopic shift of -0.35±0.16 diopters (p<0.001,). Additionally, there was a statistically significant reduction in ACD from 3.15±0.42 mm to 2.90±0.37 mm (p=0.003,). However, there was no statistically significant change in macular thickness after the procedure (p=0.287). Conclusion: Nd: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy leads to a mild but statistically significant increase in IOP and a small myopic shift in refraction. Additionally, the procedure results in a decrease in ACD but does not significantly affect macular thickness. Ophthalmologists should consider these effects when performing Nd: YAG laser posterior capsulotomy and carefully monitor patients postoperatively.

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