Relationship of Nuclear Cataract Lens Density Using the Scheimpflug System and Phacodynamics According to Patient Age
Purpose
We previously reported a positive correlation between lens density as determined by the Scheimpflug system and phacodynamics in nuclear cataracts. This study further evaluated the relationship between lens density using the Scheimpflug system and phacodynamics in nuclear cataracts as related to patient age.
Methods
In 218 eyes with nuclear cataracts, the objective lens density (0 to 100 points) was determined using the Scheimpflug system while subjective grading was achieved using the Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III). The cumulated dissipated energy (CDE) was obtained from the phaco machine after surgery.
Results
Overall, CDE had a positive correlation with Scheimpflug lens density (r=0.695, p<0.001) and LOCS III nuclear scores (r=0.704, p<0.001). When analysis was done by patient age, CDE had a positive correlation with Scheimpflug lens density for patients in their fifties[K1] (r=0.797, p<0.001), sixties (r=0.670, p<0.001), seventies (r=0.751, p<0.001), and eighties (r=0.736, p<0.01). LOCS III nuclear scores had a positive correlation with CDE for patients in the same age groups: r=0.831, p<0.001; r=0.693, p<0.001; r=0.626, p<0.001; and r=0.609, p<0.05, respectively.
Conclusion
Preoperatively, Scheimpflug lens densitometry is more useful for predicting phacodynamics than LOCS III scores in nuclear cataract patients, especially in old age (≥70 years).