2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
11 Lens and Cataract
Chapter 10: Intraoperative Challenges in Cataract Surgery
Corneal and Conjunctival Complications
Self-Limited Intraoperative Complications
Subconjunctival hemorrhages may occur due to conjunctival contact with stabilization instruments used while making clear corneal incisions, or from incidental conjunctival contact during other maneuvers. Conjunctival chemosis can result from balanced salt solution exiting the wounds underneath the conjunctiva, especially when a limbal or near-clear corneal incision has been made. Excessive subconjunctival fluid may cause liquid to pool over the cornea, inhibiting visualization. A small conjunctival peritomy can be created so that the fluid does not continue to accumulate. Intraoperative corneal abrasions can result from contact during draping, with an instrument during surgery or sloughing of epithelium in eyes with conditions such as epithelial basement membrane dystrophy.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 11 - Lens and Cataract. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.