Aqueous misdirection syndrome masking as myopic surprise following phacoemulsification surgery

Aqueous misdirection syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can present after routine phacoemulsification surgery. This report examines a case of myopic surprise following an uncomplicated left eye (LE) phacoemulsification surgery. The patient had previous bilateral peripheral iridotomies for narrow anterior chamber angles. Repeat biometry measurement of the pseudophakic LE did not show shallow anterior chamber, and intraocular pressure (IOP) was normal at initial presentation. However, approximately 3 years postoperatively, LE IOP was raised. Surgical management was considered as medical and laser procedures did not stop deterioration. Clinical presentation of aqueous misdirection syndrome may be subtle and can occur weeks to years after routine uncomplicated phacoemulsification surgery. Myopic surprise may be the only initial presenting sign. Patients who are at risk of aqueous misdirection syndrome should be followed up closely after cataract surgery with accurate gonioscopic assessments for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent optic nerve damage.