The Combination Usage of Dexamethasone and Prednisolone Versus Prednisolone Monotherapy for Inflammation and Intraocular Pressure After Cataract Surgery

Purpose The purpose of this study is to survey the anti-inflammatory effect of combined preoperative dexamethasone and postoperative prednisolone therapy and postoperative prednisolone therapy for cataract surgery. The intraocular pressure (IOP) change between groups was also examined. Methods A retrospective cohort study was practiced, and individuals who received cataract surgery were enrolled and categorized according to the anti-inflammation therapy. A total of 62 and 108 eyes were included in the combined and single groups, respectively. The primary outcomes were ocular hypertension and anterior chamber (AC) inflammation. The independent t-test and generalized linear model were used for the statistical analysis. Results There were 12 and 16 episodes of ocular hypertension in the combined and single groups, and the incidence of ocular hypertension was similar between groups (P = 0.203). In addition, there were four and seven AC inflammation events in the combined and single groups, and the incidences of AC inflammation were similar between groups (P = 0.335). Old age was correlated to a higher risk of developing ocular hypertension in the combined and single groups (both P < 0.05). Besides, higher myopia is related to higher ocular hypertension risk in the combined group (P = 0.038). Preoperative dry eye disease (DED) was associated with higher AC inflammation risk in the combined and single groups (both P < 0.05). Also, the high myopia was related to higher AC inflammation risk in the two groups (both P < 0.05). Conclusion The combination therapy of dexamethasone and prednisolone showed similar anti-inflammatory effects. The IOP changes between groups were similar.