2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
11 Lens and Cataract
Chapter 12: Preparing for Cataract Surgery in Special Situations
Ocular Trauma
Ocular Assessment
When a patient presents with a history of ocular trauma sufficient to cause a dense cataract, it is important to evaluate the other anterior segment structures, which also may be affected. If the corneal endothelium, zonular fibers, or anterior chamber angle have sustained damage, adjustments in surgical technique are needed. Gonioscopy is essential when planning IOL placement, and the surgeon should exercise great care when evaluating ocular findings and determining the potential for visual recovery (discussed in Chapter 6). Cataract may occur acutely after substantial trauma (see Chapter 5). A slowly progressive cataract after ocular trauma can be monitored while intraocular inflammation and other comorbidities are treated.
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.