Current trends in postsurgical management of ocular inflammation following cataract surgery

Postoperative inflammation following cataract surgery is the major cause of discomfort, suboptimal vision, delayed recovery and cystoid macular edema, which may impede optimal patient outcomes. Glucocorticoids are a mainstay in the treatment of ocular inflammation but have side effects. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are an effective treatment option and have a relatively low incidence of serious complications. Future options may include a new class of drugs, selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists. Selective glucocorticoid receptor agonists bind with the glucocorticoid receptor in a conformation that leads to differential gene expression and dissociation of the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids from their unwanted side effects. If their efficacy and safety are demonstrated in clinical trials, selective glucocorticoid receptor agonist compounds may provide a new treatment option for patients undergoing cataract surgery.