Evaluation of The Ocular Surface With and Without Preservatives in the Treatment of Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery

Objective: The present study aims to evaluate the effect of medical treatment, with and without preservatives, on the ocular surface in patients without dry eye who
underwent phacoemulsification surgery.
Materials and Methods: The study comprised a total of 70 patients. Following the operation, the patient was administered moxifloxacin 8x1 for a period of one week,
followed by a course of steroid treatment spanning four weeks. The initial dosage of the steroids was 8x1, which was then reduced by two drops on a weekly basis. The
patients were divided into two groups according to steroid use. Dexasine SE (Group 1, preservative-free) was prescribed to 35 patients, while Dexasine (Group 2, with
preservatives) was prescribed to 35 patients. Schirmer’s test and the evaluation of corneal and conjunctival staining were conducted before the operation, and then
at one week, one month, and three months post-surgery.
Results: The mean age of the study participants was 72.03 years (±6.29) in Group 1 and 71.43 years (±5.12) in Group 2, with no statistically significant difference
between the two groups (p=0.66). A comparison between Groups 1 and 2 revealed a significant discrepancy in Schirmer I, Break Up Time scores, and corneal conjunctival
staining at the conclusion of the initial week and initial month. However, no substantial difference was observed at the three-month mark.
Conclusion: In patients without dry eyes, dry eye tests may deteriorate on the ocular surface for up to the first 3 months preservatives contained in the drops used
before and after surgery. Therefore, the use of medication without the concomitant use of a preservative should be the preferred option.