Optical sector iridectomy in corneal opacities

Purpose. To evaluate the visual outcome after optical sector iridectomy in cases of corneal opacities. Methods. Seventeen eyes of 17 patients with pre operative visual acuity of <6/60 in the affected eye underwent sector iride ctomy in a prospective clinical study at a tertiary eye care center. Of 17 cases, 11 had corneal opacities after healed keratitis, four after trauma, and one each due to alkali bums or trachoma. The sector iridectomy was unde rtaken in cases in which one sector of the cornea and lens was fairly clear . Success was defined as attainment of ambulatory visual acuity of 6/60 or better. Results, Mean age of the patients was 32 +/- 2.3 years. Most eyes h ad deep vascularized corneal scars (13 eyes). Optical sector iridectomy was performed most frequently in the lower nasal quadrant (11 eyes) followed b y the lower temporal quadrant (four eyes). Of 17 eyes, 16 achieved a visual acuity of 6/60 or better. No intra- or postoperative complications were en countered. Conclusion. Optical sector iridectomy in cases of corneal opacit ies is a simple and safe procedure that can improve visual outcome and prov ide ambulatory vision to patients. It is a valuable alternative to penetrat ing keratoplasty if penetrating keratoplasty is not possible or not promisi ng for various reasons.