Architecture evaluation of the main clear corneal incisions in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery by optical coherence tomography imaging

PURPOSE: To assess the stability and reliability of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) incisions design and dimensions using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) imaging. SETTING: Renato Ambrósio Ophthalmologic Study Center from Hospital Oftalmológico de Brasília, Brasília, Brazil. DESIGN: Prospective nonrandomized controlled case series. METHODS: Eyes undergoing FLACS with triplanar main temporal clear corneal incision (CCI) were evaluated at the end of the case. Eyes that required any incision hydration, surgical complications or lacked follow-up were excluded. The AS-OCT was performed after femtosecond delivery; at the end of the case; at 1 day and at 30 days after surgery. Data of pachymetry, endothelial and epithelial gaps, Descemet detachment and CCI architecture were compared. RESULTS: Eleven eyes from 11 patients completed follow-up. Corneal thickness was statistically different between after femtosecond delivery and the end of the case (P-value <0.05), but without difference compared to 30 days evaluation. There was an increase of Descemet detachments (P-value <0.05) and endothelial gaps (P-value =0.0133) at the end of the case compared to post-femtosecond delivery. As for the architecture of the CCI, significant difference was found between the parameters of entry angle and exit angle measured with AS-OCT and the programmed. CONCLUSION: The AS-OCT was capable of visualizing changes in the cornea at the CCI. Despite the stress caused by manipulation, results indicated good stability of incision and reproducibility of tunnel length. SYNOPSIS: Difference of corneal thickness at the CCI between after femtosecond and after phacoemulsification measurements (P-value <0.05), with increase of endothelial gaps (P-value =0.0133) and Descemet detachments (P-value <0.05).