Abstract Purpose: Numerous studies have investigated a drop in corneal sensations after cataract extraction. However, their pattern of recovery over a relatively longer period of time has not been observed. The aim of this study was to investigate the recovery pattern of corneal sensations following phacoemulsification cataract surgery (PCS) and manual small incision cataract surgery (SICS). Subjects and Methods: Patients ≥40 years who underwent cataract surgery were included and preoperative baseline corneal sensations were measured using Cochet–Bonnet esthesiometer at prespecified points on the cornea. Patients were followed up at 7 days, 1, 3, and 6 months from the date of surgery. Measurements were done at same points to analyze any changes in pattern of corneal sensations and its association with site of incision. Results: A total of 200 patients who underwent phacoemulsification and SICS were studied. A significant drop in corneal sensitivity following SICS as compared to PCS group was noted in immediate postoperative period; with a faster recovery trend seen in PCS group (close to recovery in 3 month and complete in 6 months) than SICS group; with a good linear correlation between parameters measured. Conclusion: Overall, site, size and depth of the incision and wound construction play a role in postoperative outcome and change in corneal sensitivity in the early postoperative period. Smaller incision length could account for PCS inflicting lesser damage to corneal nerves as compared to larger incision lengths in SICS. Hence, PCS showed quicker recovery of corneal sensations, which is paramount in maintaining a healthy ocular surface.
John et al. (Sun,) studied this question.