Evaluation of the tear film and meibomian glands before and after cataract surgery by the ocular surface analyzer.

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the tear film and meibomian gland function before and after cataract surgery using the Lacrydiag ocular surface analyzer.

Methods: This was an observational prospective study including 34 eyes that underwent phacoemulsification at the Ophthalmology Department of Menoufia University Hospital from October 2023 to January 2024. The patients were evaluated pre-operatively as well as 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively. Dry eye symptoms were assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire. Traditional tear break up time (TBUT) was performed as well as Schirmer I test. The Lacrydiag Ocular Surface Analyzer was used for assessment of the tear film and meibomian glands.

Results: Ocular surface analyzer evaluations revealed statistically significant changes at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery in comparison to the values before surgery. Significant reductions were observed in non-invasive tear break-up time (NITBUT) and tear meniscus height, as well as in Schirmer's test without anesthesia, and fluorescein break-up time at each postoperative interval. Some improvements were observed at 1 month and 3 months, however, measurements did not return to the initial preoperative levels. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores significantly increased after 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-surgery compared to preoperative levels. The proportion of meibomian gland area loss did not significantly increase after surgery (no structural alterations were noted).

Conclusion: The study shows that phacoemulsification impacts both tear quantity and quality, affecting overall tear film stability and ocular surface health.