The results of cataract nigra cases operated with the mini-nuc technique

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the mini-nuc technique for the removal of brunescent and black cataracts. A prospective study was carried out in 33 eyes of 33 patients with cataract nigra operated with the mini-nuc technique between April 2002 and June 2003. Slit-lamp examinations, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were assessed pre- and postoperatively. Accompanying systemic diseases were noted. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were evaluated. Unilateral eyes of 33 patients (18 male [54.5%], 15 female [45.5%]) aged between 65 and 90 years (mean 72 years) were operated with the mini-nuc technique. Preoperative BCVA values varied between light perception and 0.2 in the Snellen chart. Intraocular lenses (IOL) were implanted into all of the patients (27 in-the-bag [81.8%], four to sulcus [12.1%], and two with scleral fixation [6.1%]). During the surgery, five patients (15.15%) had zonular dialysis and two (6.1%) had posterior capsule rupture and vitreous loss. Postoperatively, three (9.1%) rises in IOP, two (6.1%) hyphema, and one (3%) IOL subluxation were observed. At the first day visit, the mean of the uncorrected visual acuities (UCVA) was 0.5 in the Snellen chart. At the third month visit, the mean BCVA was observed to be 0.8. The residual mean astigmatism was 0.75 D against the rule. The mini-nuc technique was effective in removing brunescent and black cataracts with a low rate of serious complications. The mini-nuc technique, which is also performed with a small incision and without sutures, might be an alternative to phacoemulsification in cases of cataract nigra.