Descemet's membrane detachment after cataract extraction surgery.

Descemet's membrane detachment (DMD) is a rare but potentially serious complication of intraocular surgery, most commonly cataract extraction. Many predisposing factors of DMD have been postulated; however, none have proved to be significant. Most DMDs are surgically induced; however, the occurrence of this entity bilaterally, during or after otherwise uneventful cataract extraction surgery, might be related to an inherent abnormal adhesion between the stroma and Descemet's membrane or pre-existing endothelial abnormalities. Early recognition and proper management are important to preserve the vision and avoid permanent corneal damage. Although a small, localized detachment at the wound area tends to heal by spontaneous re-attachment, a larger or more progressive detachment requires surgical intervention because the prognosis of spontaneous re-attachment is poor.