A Comparison Between the Ocular Surface of Different Concentrations of Benzalkonium Chloride Preservative in Postoperative Topical Medications After Cataract Surgery

This study is focused on understanding how different concentrations of a preservative called Benzalkonium Chloride (BAK) in eye medications affect the eye's surface after cataract surgery. Cataract surgery patients often need to use eye drops to aid recovery, and these drops can contain preservatives like BAK, which might impact the health of the eye surface. The study includes 60 eyes, split into three groups, each receiving different formulations of eye drops. The aim is to determine the best concentration of BAK that maintains eye health while still being effective, potentially improving recovery for future patients undergoing cataract surgery. Participants will be divided into three groups, with each group receiving a different eye drop regimen. Group 1 will use Tobradex with a regular concentration of BAK, Group 2 will use Dexathalm with a lower concentration of BAK, and Group 3 will use a version of Dexathalm without BAK. The effectiveness and impact of these treatments will be evaluated by measuring tear stability and assessing symptoms of dry eye through a questionnaire. Assessments take place before surgery and at several points after surgery (day 1, one week, and three weeks) to compare results and determine which treatment is gentlest and most effective on the eye surface.