DOI: 10.4103/jdrntruhs.jdrntruhs_145_25 ISSN: 2950-5348

A study of changes in meibomian gland function before and after cataract surgery by customized meibographer using auto refractokeratometer

Kamireddy Krishna Priya, Mandalapu Kavitha, B. Maina Supraja, Undrakonda Vivekanand
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ABSTRACT

Purpose:

To evaluate changes in meibomian gland function before and after cataract surgery, comparing outcomes between Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS) and Phacoemulsification (PHACO).

Materials and Methods:

This observational comparative study included 142 patients undergoing cataract surgery (71 SICS, 71 PHACO) between July 2022 and June 2024. Meibomian gland function was assessed pre- and post-operatively using lid margin abnormality (LMA), meibomian gland expressibility (MGE), meiboscore (via customised meibographer with autorefracto-keratometer), tear film break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer’s test, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI).

Results:

Both groups showed significant postoperative deterioration in meibomian gland function. In SICS, MED increased from 0.30 ± 0.46 to 0.54 ± 0.50 ( P = 0.00), and in PHACO from 0.32 ± 0.47 to 0.57 ± 0.49 ( P = 0.00). TBUT decreased significantly in both groups (SICS: 14.52 ± 6.51 to 12.39 ± 6.59; PHACO: 15.71 ± 7.33 to 11.05 ± 5.43, P < 0.05). Schirmer’s values reduced markedly (SICS: 15.02 ± 5.23 to 8.17 ± 2.62; PHACO: 16.71 ± 6.14 to 8.79 ± 3.81). OSDI scores increased significantly postoperatively (SICS: 15.25→38.35, PHACO: 15.36→38.02, P = 0.001). No significant difference was observed between surgical techniques in the degree of meibomian gland dysfunction.

Conclusion:

Cataract surgery, irrespective of surgical technique, is associated with significant postoperative impairment of meibomian gland function and ocular surface parameters. These findings highlight the need for preoperative assessment and postoperative management of dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction.

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