Combined cataract extraction and intravitreal bevacizumab in eyes with choroidal neovascularization resulting from age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of phacoemulsification, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and a single intravitreal injection of bevacizumab in patients with coexisting visually significant cataract and subfoveal neovascularization due to age-related macular degeneration. SETTING: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bari, Bari, Italy. METHODS: Eyes with predominantly classic subfoveal neovascularization and cataract had phacoemulsification, IOL implantation, and a 1.25 mg intravitreal injection of bevacizumab. One month after combined surgery, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), anterior chamber reaction, and intraocular pressure were evaluated and central foveal thickness was measured by optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: Twenty eyes of 20 patients were evaluated. One month postoperatively, the mean CDVA improved significantly, from 20/100 (range 20/160 to 20/80) at baseline to 20/63 (range 20/125 to 20/50) (P<.0001). The mean central foveal thickness decreased significantly, from 353.75 mu m +/- 12.50 (SD) (range 334 to 375 mu m) at baseline to 275.7 +/- 17.3 mu m (range 255 to 323 mu m) at 1 month (P<.0001). Intraocular pressure did not change significantly, and anterior chamber reaction was absent. No ocular or systemic adverse events were observed. CONCLUSION: Combined phacoemulsification, IOL implantation, and intravitreal bevacizumab was a safe and efficacious treatment in patients with visually significant cataract and active subfoveal neovascularization.