Intraocular lens implantation through 3.2 versus 4.0 mm incisions

PURPOSE: To prospectively compare the clinical results of two small incision cataract surgery procedures: silicone intraocular lens (IOL) implantation through a 3.2 mm incision and poly(methyl methacrylate) IOL implantation through a 4.0 mm cruciate incision. SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology, Ramón y Cajal Hospital, Madrid, Spain. METHODS: One hundred twenty eyes with cataract were randomly assigned to either procedure. Except for incision width, identical surgical methods were used in every case. Data on uncorrected visual acuity, keratometry, and postoperative astigmatism were analyzed up to 6 months after surgery. RESULTS: Both groups had similar uncorrected visual acuities. Mean postoperative corneal astigmatism was against the rule with both techniques, and it remained stable during the study. No significant differences between groups were found (P > .1). CONCLUSION: Both procedures offered satisfactory clinical results and were associated with postoperative against-the-rule astigmatism despite the use of the nylon suture.