Correction of Pre-Existing Astigmatism with Phacoemulsification Using Spherical Intraocular Lens and Wave front Guided Surface Ablation: A Retrospective Case Series

Objective: To evaluate safety and efficacy of using spherical intraocular lens followed by wavefront guided surface ablation in correction of preexisting regular corneal astigmatism. Methods: This retrospective case series study included 20 eyes of 16 patients having visually significant cataracts and co-existing regular corneal astigmatism. The patients underwent phacoemulsification with spherical intraocular lens and wavefront guided PRK three months later. Results: There was a statistically significant difference for Uncorrected Visual Acuity UCVA, Best Corrected Visual Acuity BCVA, Manifest Refraction Spherical Equivalent MRSE, and refractive astigmatism postoperatively regarding all these parameters (P˂0.05). Conclusion: Astigmatism correction during or even after cataract surgery is a safe and effective method to improve visual outcomes. Longer period of follow up are required to evaluate stability of this technique and possibility of regression.