Timing of the modified yamane technique in complicated cataract surgery: same session or second session?

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the timing of the modified Yamane technique (MYT) in complicated cataract surgery where capsular support is lost.

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on 41 eyes of 41 patients. Participants who underwent the MYT during primary cataract surgery were classified as group P(n = 12),while those who underwent the technique in a second session after cataract surgery were classified as group S(n = 29).Preoperative and postoperative ophthalmological findings were examined in both groups.

Results: In group S,the mean time between the two surgeries was 18 days (range:6-32 days).Preoperative intraocular pressure was 12.5 ± 2.9 mmHg in group P and 15.1 ± 1.9 mmHg in group S(p = 0.02).At the postoperative six-month follow-up, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in relation to visual acuity, refraction measurements, or intraocular pressure values(p > 0.05 for all). Central macular thickness was measured as 274 ± 18 microns(range:236-291 microns) in group P and 254 ± 11 microns (range:229-272 microns) in group S(p = 0.02).In the early postoperative period (< 1 month),cystoid macular edema occurred in two cases(16.6%) in group P, while one case(8.3%) of increased intraocular pressure and one case(8.3%) of severe corneal edema were observed. In group S, cystoid macular edema occurred in one case(3.4%).No complications were detected in either group during the late postoperative period.

Conclusion: In cases of complicated cataract with loss of capsular support,the MYT,whether performed in the same session or in a second session, yielded comparable visual and refractive outcomes. While complications were more frequent in the early postoperative period in the group undergoing surgery in the same session,no complications were observed in either group during the late postoperative period.