EXFOLIATION SYNDROME AS A RISK FACTOR FOR VITREOUS LOSS IN EXTRACAPSULAR CATARACT SURGERY: (Preliminary report)

Exfoliation syndrome is a major risk factor for extracapsular cataract surgery. In a series of unselected prospectively evaluated extracapsular cataract extractions performed by 9 surgeons the incidence of vitreous loss was 1.8% in 1205 cataracts without EX; in those with EX 9%. This fivefold increased incidence of vitreous loss appears related to the difficulties to obtain a satisfactory mydriasis, to the fragility of the zonula and potential, subluxation of the lens. As precautionary measures we recommend Flieringaring, in case of doubt sector iridotomy and sector iridectomy. Exfoliation syndrome is not a harmless anomaly but a potentially disastrous disease of the anterior segment of the eye.