[Pathologically reduced endothelial cell number despite normal slit-lamp microscopic corneal findings. An important result before cataract surgery].

Background: A reduced number of endothelial cells increases the risk of corneal decompensation after cataract surgery. It is difficult to quantify the number of endothelial cells using slit-lamp microscopy since normal corneas may also show a reduced number of endothelial cells.
Materials and Methods: We compared the number of endothelial cells pre- and postoperatively in a group of 500 consecutive patients.
Results: Corneas diagnosed preoperatively with corneae guttata by slit-lamp microscopy may reveal more than 1800 endothelial cells/mm2. These corneas may decompensate after surgery.
Conclusion: We consider the routine use of endothelial microscopy to be a helpful diagnostic tool prior to cataract surgery.