AAOpt 2025: Perfluorohexyloctane use in patients with DED undergoing cataract surgery

During this year's American Academy of Optometry's Academy meeting, Cecelia Koetting from the University of Colorado School of Medicine discussed a clinical study on perfluorohexoloctane and its impact on patients undergoing cataract surgery. The study design was complex and multi-phased. Patients underwent baseline biometry readings before using perfluorohexoloctane, which was used for 30 days, proceeded with cataract surgery, stopped using the drop for another 30 days, and then resumed use for an additional 30 days. The primary research objectives were to investigate whether perfluorohexoloctane would alter biometry readings and subsequently affect intraocular lens (IOL) calculation.

The study found no significant changes in patients' IOL calculations or post-operative refraction. However, the research aligned with previous FDA phase 3 trials, revealing statistically and clinically significant improvements in 2 key areas: corneal fluorescein staining and patient SANDE scores. These findings mirrored the earlier trials that ultimately led to the substance's approval.

A critical clinical pearl emerging from the study emphasizes the importance of addressing ocular surface disease before cataract surgery. Koetting highlighted that ocular surface conditions can deteriorate after surgical intervention if not properly managed beforehand. While the perfluorohexoloctane did not demonstrate any negative impact on refractive error calculations, the study underscored the broader medical principle of comprehensive patient care. The goal remains helping patients not just see better, but also feel better overall. The research contributes valuable insights into pre-surgical ocular surface management, suggesting that healthcare providers should proactively treat and optimize patients' eye conditions prior to cataract surgery. This approach can potentially improve surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

By systematically examining the substance's effects through multiple measurement points and comparing results with previous FDA trials, the study provides a nuanced understanding of perfluorohexoloctane's role in ophthalmological procedures.