Microphthalmos is a rare condition that is often associated with several other ocular abnormalities. Given the considerable differences between microphthalmic and anatomically normal eyes, cataract surgery is technically demanding in these patients, and special attention must be given to adequate preoperative planning of these procedures. Furthermore, the unique nature of these surgeries creates a particular subset of intraoperative and postoperative complications. However, with the advent of piggyback intraocular lens placement, the visual outcomes of cataract surgery in small adult eyes have improved considerably over the past 20 years. This review discusses the nature of the microphthalmic eye, and addresses proper pre-, intra-, and postoperative care of the microphthalmic patient.
Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Department of Ophthalmology, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
Reprint address: Suqin Guo, MD, Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Dept of Ophthalmology, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, 90 Bergen Street, Newark, NJ 07030.
The authors reported no proprietary or commercial interest in any product mentioned or concept discussed in this article.
Supported in part by an unrestricted grant from Research to prevent Blindness Inc., and the Lions Eye Research Foundation of New Jersey.
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