Role of Air Bubble in Cornea after Phaco-Emulsification Surgery
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61561/ssbgjms.v6i03.117Keywords:
Phaco-Emulsification, Cornea, Air Bubble, Descemet MembraneAbstract
Introduction: Phacoemulsification is the most commonly performed procedure for cataract removal and has revolutionized modern cataract surgery due to its rapid visual recovery and minimal complications. However, postoperative corneal edema and delayed visual rehabilitation remain concerns. This study aimed to evaluate the role of an intracameral air bubble in improving early postoperative corneal outcomes.
Methods: This prospective comparative study was conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology from July 2024 to July 2025 and included 86 eyes of 86 patients undergoing uncomplicated phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) implantation. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups: Group A (n=43), where the anterior chamber was reformed with a small intracameral air bubble (20–25% fill) at the end of surgery, and Group B (n=43), where balanced salt solution (BSS) was used without air. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0.
Result: In 86 eyes, intracameral air bubble significantly reduced early postoperative corneal thickness (Day 1: 560.1 µm vs 589.7 µm; Day 7: 545.4 µm vs 563.2 µm) and improved early corneal clarity (65.1% vs 39.5%) compared to BSS, with minimal endothelial cell loss (~3.7% vs 3.6%) and only transient Day 1 IOP elevation (16.1 vs 14.7 mmHg). Persistent oedema beyond 1 week was lower in the air group (4.7% vs 13.9%).
Conclusion: The use of an intracameral air bubble at the end of phacoemulsification surgery provides significant early benefits, including reduced central corneal thickness, faster recovery of corneal clarity, and decreased incidence of persistent postoperative oedema, without causing additional endothelial cell loss. Although a transient elevation in intraocular pressure may occur on the first postoperative day, it resolves spontaneously and does not compromise safety.
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