Topical prostaglandins can increase risk of pseudophakic cystoid macular
edema by disrupting the blood-aqueous barrier.
This is an important consideration in patients who have glaucoma who
are undergoing cataract surgery, and may need to be stopped especially in
patients who are at higher risk for macular edema after surgery.
In summary, preoperative medications for cataract surgery,
include those agents used for dilation, including phenylephrine 2.5% and
tropicamide 1% because they have a synergistic affect.
Non-steriodals, such as flubriprofen may be used at the time of surgery to
improve dilation, and prevention of myosis.
Topical anesthesia is performed often with proparacaine and lidocaine jelly, however,
additional agents may be used for peribulbar and retrobulbar blocks.