WHAT ON EARTH DOES MY PROSTATE HAVE TO DO WITH MY CATARACT?
In 2005, the syndrome “intraoperative floppy iris syndrome” (IFIS) was coined by John Campbell, M.D. and David Chang, M.D. These experts in the field of cataract surgery noticed that the use of tamsulosin (Flomax) was highly associated with IFIS which makes cataract surgery more difficult by reducing visibility during the surgery. Flomax is prescribed for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and is the most widely prescribed treatment worldwide. Flomax is in a class of drugs called systemic alpha-1 antagonists and is designed to relax muscles near the bladder improving urination. Similar muscle receptors are found in the iris and hence the problem with IFIS. Other drugs in this same class such as doxazosin (Cardura), terasozin (Hytrin), and alfuzosin (Uroxatral) can also cause IFIS but much less frequently.
Reference: Chang DF, Campbell JR. Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome associated with tamsulosin (Flomax). J Cataract Refract Surg 2005; 31: 664-673.
Since the syndrome has been identified, we have developed many strategies to reduce the complication risks and improve surgical outcomes. IFIS can occur even if you have taken Flomax in the past and have since discontinued the medication therefore it is very important to tell us during the pre-operative examination for surgery if you have an enlarged prostate and which medications you have used in the past. Additionally, if you and your doctor or urologist are considering starting Flomax for BPH and you know or suspect catarct formation, it is recomended you have an ophthalmologic examination prior to starting therapy.
So, there really is a link between your prostate and your eyes… ask us for more information (530) 756-5040.
