Combined toric lens implantation and astigmatic keratotomy is a safe and effective way to correct high astigmatism, according to findings published in Techniques in Ophthalmology.

Dr Robert H. Osher et al., Cincinnati Eye Institute, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, studied 20 eyes with keratometric astigmatism with a mean of 4.05 D. All patients were implanted with a toric IOL combined with astigmatic keratotomy. The outcome measure was uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA).

All patients attained a UDVA of 20/40 or better. Of the 20 eyes studied, 8 eyes achieved a UDVA of 20/25 or better and 16 eyes achieved 1 D or less of refractive cylinder. Additionally, no complications occurred either intra- or postoperatively and the full group indicated satisfaction with their visual results.

The results demonstrated that through combining toric IOL implantation and astigmatic keratotomy it is possible to reduce high astigmatism in cataract patients.