Ocular bandage induces less astigmatism after cataract surgery

This prospective study found liquid adhesive ocular bandages resulted in better epithelial wound coverage and healing than stromal hydration and provided more comfort and less astigmatism than suturing.

The authors compared the anatomic, refractive and symptomatic outcomes in 90 eyes undergoing phacoemulsification and CCI wound closure by standard hydration (control group), a single radial nylon suture or a new hydrogel liquid adhesive ocular bandage.

Compared with sutures, the liquid adhesive ocular bandage improved patient comfort and reduced the amount of induced astigmatism. Compared with stromal hydration, the liquid adhesive ocular bandage reduced the amount of wound gape and improved epithelial healing with no adverse effects.

Suturing was associated with improved wound-edge closure but increased surgically induced astigmatism and foreign-body sensation. Unsutured incisions led to delayed wound-edge closure and increased foreign-body sensation.

They conclude that additional studies are needed to determine whether the use of liquid adhesive ocular bandages reduces the risk of infectious complications.