PurposeTo analyze retinal blood flow before and after cataract surgery using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA).MethodsProspective observational study. Consecutive patients were recruited and scanned using SS-OCTA before and after cataract surgery. Laser flare photometry were performed post-surgery. Perfusion and vessel density of superficial (SCP) and deep capillary plexuses (DCP) of the 3 × 3 mm images as well as foveal avascular zone (FAZ) measurements were assessed. Vessel continuity, vessel visibility and presence of artefacts were evaluated by two blinded graders using a predefined grading protocol.ResultsThirteen eyes of 12 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was a significant increase of perfusion and vessel densities in both the SCP and the DCP after cataract surgery within the 3 × 3 mm images. Significantly better distinguishability of FAZ border was observed postoperatively in both SCP and DCP, however, FAZ area and perimeter measurements did not significantly change after cataract surgery. Mean number of motion artifacts in SCP and DCP numerically decreased by 37% (P = .089) and 42% (P = .080).ConclusionsLens opacities have a significant influence on retinal blood flow measurements in SS-OCTA and should be considered in quantitative vessel analysis. Inflammation may also impact the assessment of density parameters. FAZ measurements seems to be the most robust parameters in terms of media opacity.

The high percentage of patients meeting the exit criteria and the relatively low incidence of recurrences underline the usefulness of a predefined exit strategy. However, in a subgroup of patients, continuation of therapy may be advisable.This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal.