Comparative study of efficacy of topical dexamethasone 0.1% with difluprednate 0.05% in post-operative small incision cataract surgery

Introduction: Post-operative ocular inflammation is a common occurrence following cataract surgery. Corticosteroids have been used to treat ocular inflammation; however, they carry a risk of side effects, particularly an increase in intra ocular pressure (IOP). Previous studies have proved that difluprednate is more efficacious compared to dexamethasone. Hence this study was undertaken to compare the efficacy of difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% and dexamethasone 0.1% in postoperative management after small incision cataract surgery. Materials and Methods: A total 200 patients were selected as per inclusion criteria and equally divided between difluprednate and dexamethasone groups. Dexamethasone 0.1% or difluprednate0.05% was prescribed post operatively following small incision cataract surgery. Patients were examined on post-operative day 1, 7, 15 and 30 for anterior segment by slit-lamp examination and side effects. IOP was measured in both the groups on day 30. Results: In our observation both drugs were efficient in the reduction of anterior chamber cells and flare with difluprednate being more rapid. Corneal edema was reduced equally by both the drugs at all observation periods. There was no clinically significant IOP elevation in both difluprednate and dexamethsone group. Difluprednate was found to be more effective in controlling pain compared to dexamethasone. Conclusion: As per present study both difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% eye drops and dexamethasone 0.1% eye drops were equally effective in reducing post cataract surgery inflammation. Hence, difluprednate emulsion 0.05% can be used in post-operative management after cataract surgery; nonetheless, further clinical trials with long follow- up period are required.