Objective: To probe into the clinical application of contrast sensitivity and glare sensitivity in evaluating visual function of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) and also investigate the visual function criterion in performing neodymium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy.
Methods: Measurements of visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and glare sensitivity were obtained from 73 pseudophakic eyes (67 cases) before and after Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy and the results were analysed. The method of Nd:YAG laser surgery was posterior capsular circular resection. The diameter of capsular chip was 5 mm. The average energy of single pulse was (2.93 +/- 0.63) mJ and the mean total energy was (57.47 +/- 36.05) mJ. The average follow-up was (14 +/- 6) months.
Results: Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity curve and glare sensitivity curve improved in all cases postoperatively. Comparing the parameters of pre-laser and post-laser measurement, there was very significant difference (P < 0.01). The only postoperative complication was the laser spot in intraocular lens (IOL, 5 eyes, 6.8%). No retinal detachment, cystoid macular edema and dislocation of IOL were observed in this series.
Conclusion: Contrast sensitivity and glare sensitivity can represent the visual function of PCO sensitively and completely. They can be regarded as evaluation criterion of surgical timing and effect of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy.