The efficacy of bandage contact lens in relieving the aggravation of dry eye disease after complicated cataract or/and IOL surgery

Purpose: In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the bandage contact lens (BCL) in the treatment of dry eye disease (DED) after complicated cataract or/and intraocular lens (IOL) surgery. Methods In this retrospective, single-centered, observational study, we collected data from 69 patients who underwent complicated cataract or/and IOL surgery. Of these, 35 cases wore their own bandage contact lenses (BCLs) immediately after the operation, while the other 34 cases did not have their own BCLs and were instead covered with gauze.Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, slit-lamp microscope examination, keratograph analysis, and Schirmer I test were measured at baseline and 1 month postoperatively. Results In the BCL group, the score of the OSDI questionnaire was significantly decreased 1 week and 1 month postoperatively compared with baseline levels (P = 0.000, collectively). Moreover, the fluorescein staining score of the BCL group was remarkably decreased 1- week and 1- month postoperatively compared with the non-BCL group (P = 0.000 and P = 0.000, respectively). Furthermore, the redness score of the BCL group was also better compared with the non-BCL group 1 week and 1 month postoperatively (P = 0.014 and P = 0.004, respectively). Conclusions Complicated cataract or/and IOL surgery would intensify the DED. Early application of BCLs postoperatively improved patient comfort and alleviated dry eye symptoms and signs. Furthermore, this mechanism might involve the acceleration of corneal epithelial healing, the alleviation of ocular stress response, and the stabilization of the tear film.