Corneal astigmatism after tunnel incision for cataract extraction

PURPOSE: To evaluate the development of astigmatism after cataract extraction depending on the kind of incision MATERIAL AND METHODS: Astigmatism was examined in 107 eyes of 92 patients, who underwent cataract extraction, mostly with IOL's implantation. In 52 eyes phacoemulsification with tunnel incision, measuring 5 mm in 27 and 8 mm in 25, was performed. In the control group of 55 eyes incision with scleral flap measured 2/5 of the corneal circumference. In cases with 5 mm incisions no sutures were used, in 8 mm incisions wounds were closed with single sutures and in control group the double continuous sutures were applied. Astigmatism was measured in two days, one week, four weeks and 3 months after surgery. RESULTS: Post-operative astigmatism decreased gradually and after 3 months was average 0.14 D in the eyes without sutures, 0.68 D in those with single ones and 1.78 D in the control group.