Which condition is associated with an increased risk of retinal detachment and glaucoma following cataract surgery?

Which condition is associated with an increased risk of retinal detachment and glaucoma following cataract surgery?

• A. Certain breeds
• B. Young age
• C. Hypermature cataracts
• D. Small pupil

Answer: (C)

Hypermature cataracts carry degenerative changes that make both the surgery and the healing period more prone to problems. As the cortex liquefies and the capsule weakens, the intraoperative removal is more likely to cause posterior capsule rupture and vitreous loss. When the vitreous is disturbed or displaced, traction on the retina can lead to tears and, after surgery, retinal detachment becomes more likely. Inflammation from long-standing cataract changes can clog the drainage pathways, and residual lens material or inflammatory debris can block the trabecular meshwork, increasing the risk of secondary glaucoma. These combined factors explain why hypermature cataracts are associated with higher rates of retinal detachment and glaucoma after cataract surgery.

Hypermature cataracts carry degenerative changes that make both the surgery and the healing period more prone to problems. As the cortex liquefies and the capsule weakens, the intraoperative removal is more likely to cause posterior capsule rupture and vitreous loss. When the vitreous is disturbed or displaced, traction on the retina can lead to tears and, after surgery, retinal detachment becomes more likely. Inflammation from long-standing cataract changes can clog the drainage pathways, and residual lens material or inflammatory debris can block the trabecular meshwork, increasing the risk of secondary glaucoma. These combined factors explain why hypermature cataracts are associated with higher rates of retinal detachment and glaucoma after cataract surgery.