Effect of Intracameral Heparin on Postoperative Inflammation in Soft Cataract Surgery

Abstract

Heparinized irrigating solution is advocated for cases where a higher risk of postoperative inflammation and PCO formation is expected as in children and young adults undergoing soft cataract surgery. Knowing the role of heparin as anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative drug, heparin sodium was added to the irrigating solution during cataract surgery: • in a concentration of 10 IU/ml • in 15 eyes of children and young adults (12 congenital& 3 traumatic cataracts) • posterior capsulotomy and anterior vitrectomy were done as well for 4 children at the age of 5 years and younger. The effect of heparin was assessed postoperatively, over 3 months, in terms of anterior segment inflammation, including anterior chamber cells, flare and fibrinoid reactions, and PCO formation. Early postoperative inflammation was found to be reduced as 20% of the cases had AC cells and flare grade 1 which disappeared by the end of the 1st week, while late fibrinoid complications and PCO were not seen.