Macular phototrauma after cataract extraction and multifocal lens implantation: case report.

PURPOSE: To report a patient who developed photic injury after cataract surgery and multifocal MF4 lens implantation

METHODS

A 41-year-old caucasian woman without antecedents of interest was subjected to left catarct surgery involving phacoemulsification with capsular sac implantation of a new type of multifocal lens. A coaxial light microscope was used for surgery. The operation was filmed and anterior pole photographs were obtained.

RESULTS

Two days after the operation, the patient noted a paracentral scotoma and hand movement visual acuity in the left eye. Indirect ophthalmoscopy revealed an oval, hyperpigmented macular lesion compatible with phototoxic maculopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

Phototoxic injury to the macula may occur after cataract extraction. Implantation of an intraocular lens is an important factor in the producion of maculopathy, on account of its light-focusing effect on the retina. This effect was probably increased in our patient by the use of a new autofocus multifocal lens.