Altered endothelium despite normal slit-lamp findings. An important resultbefore cataract surgery

Background. A reduced number of endothelial cells increases the risk of cor neal decompensation after cataract surgery. It is difficult to quantify the number of endothelial cells using slit-lamp microscopy since normal cornea s may also show a reduced number of endothelial cells. Materials and methods. We compared the number of endothelial cells pre- and postoperatively in a group of 500 consecutive patients. Results. Corneas diagnosed preoperatively with corneae guttata by slit-lamp microscopy may reveal more than 1800 endothelial cells/mm(2). These cornea s may decompensate after surgery. Conclusion. We consider the routine use of endothelial microscopy to be a h elpful diagnostic tool prior to cataract surgery.