Improving the quality of visualization in phacoemulsification in the “triple procedure”

Abstract

The so-called “triple procedure,” including penetrating keratoplasty in combination with cataract removal and posterior chamber IOL implantation, is the preferred treatment method for patients with combined pathology of the cornea and lens. Methods to reduce intraoperative complications and ensure rapid visual rehabilitation in patients with concomitant conditions are of particular importance when planning such surgeries. In this article, we describe a clinical case of a triple procedure, which involves a lamellar dissection of the damaged cornea of the recipient followed by exposure of the residual corneal stroma to a 40% glucose solution in combination with a viscoelastic, which allowed for optical clearing of the stroma and improved visualization of the anterior chamber structures for phacoemulsification with posterior chamber IOL implantation. This approach represents a safer alternative to the “cataract stage” of surgery, performed under “open sky” conditions.