To assess the amount of astigmatism reduction through Pentacam by

Limbal Relaxing Incision (LRI)

Authors: Optom. Huma Parveen, Dr R K Bansal and Optom. Vinod

Kumar.

Abstract

Pupose: To assess the amount of astigmatism reduction through Pentacam by

LRI in patients undergoing phacoemulsification.

Methods: The prospective study was conducted at Department of

Ophthalmology, GMCH, Chandigarh for phacoemulsification and were having
pre-existing astigmatism between 1- 2 Dioptres (D). The LRI was performed
according to Online LRI calculator available from Johnson and Johnson
determined by preoperative Pentacam. The LRI was performed before
phacoemulsification incisions. The LRI was of fixed depth (0.4mm) and
performed with disposable LRI blade at palisades of Vogt. Pentacam was done
before and 1 month after the surgery to assess amount of astigmatism.

Results: Sample size was 15 patients. The average preoperative Pentacam

astigmatism was 1.53± 0.30D (range from 1.00 to 1.98D). Mean LRI Extent was
81.4° ± 26.5°. (range from 60°-130°). Mean post-op astigmatism at one month
was 0.90 ± 0.51D and (range 0.2D - 1.50D). Mean reduction in astigmatism was
0.77 ± 0.42D (range 1.00D to 1.15D) which was found to be significant
(P˂0.05). Mean postoperative spherical equivalent was 0.41 ± 0.24D and
(range 0-0.75).

None of the patient has any complications from LRI.

Conclusion: LRI is a simple, safe and predictable procedure for correcting
moderate amount of astigmatism. LRI is also forgiving approach for the
correction of astigmatism. Most of the patients achieved ≥ 6/9 without
spectacles.