Evaluation of Intraocular Pressure Changes Following Cataract Surgery at a Tertiary Eye Hospital in Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

Cataract is one of the leading causes of visual impairment. Cataract surgery is the only recognized and effective treatment for cataract, and it has also been found to affect intraocular pressure. This study aimed to evaluate intraocular pressure (IOP) changes following cataract surgery. This Prospective observational study assessed changes following cataract surgery at Makkah Specialist Eye Hospitals, Kano, Nigeria, from 28th January to 28th March, 2026. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 80 participants scheduled for cataract surgery at Makkah Specialist Eye Hospital, Kano. Preoperative and postoperative (24 hours, 1 week and 1 month) intraocular pressure values were recorded, along with demographic data, type of cataract surgery, and complications if any, after obtaining informed consent. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-test to detect mean IOP difference, as well as chi-square tests of association (p < 0.05). Cataract was mainly due to age 66 (82.5%). Nuclear cataract, 41 (51.2%), was the major types of cataracts. 75 (93.8%), of the participants underwent phacoemulsification. There was a statistically significant difference in IOP before (M = 17.63mmHg, SD = 3.223mmHg) and 24 hours after (M =19.46mmHg, SD = 3.762mmHg) cataract surgery; t (79) = -4.329, p < .001, as well as before (M = 17.63mmHg, SD = 3.223mmHg) and 1 month after (M =15.33mmHg, SD = 2.836mmHg) cataract surgery; t (79) = 6.943, p < .001. Cataract surgery is not only effective for visual rehabilitation but also contributes positively to short-term intraocular pressure reduction at one-month post-operation.