Aims: To study the effect of topical Diclofenac sodium 0.1% as an alternative to topical steroid, Dexamethasone phosphate 0.1% for post-operative control of inflammation after small incision cataract surgery. Settings and Design: Double blinded study done in a tertiary care hospital. Methods and Material: 100 patients with uncomplicated senile cataract who underwent uneventful small incision cataract surgery with posterior chamber intra ocular lens implantation were selected and divided into 2 groups of 50 each. One group was given dexamethasone phosphate 1%, other group diclofenac sodium 0.1% topically. They were examined on 7, 15, 30th day for congestion, corneal edema, anterior chamber flare, cells, intraocular pressure and grading was done as per severity and total score was assessed. The results were compared between the two groups. Statistical Analysis used: Chi square test with p value < 0.05 as significant. Results: Day 7 and 15 the response was good for dexamethsaone group for all the parameters. By day 30 there was no significant difference between the two groups in all the parameters. No significant difference in IOP at baseline and at 6 weeks post operatively between the two groups. Conclusions: The resolution of inflammation was quicker in the dexamethasone group than in the diclofenac group. But by the end of 30 days the effect on inflammation in both the groups are similar. So Diclofenac sodium 0.1% can be used as an alternative to Dexamethasone phosphate 0.1% in post operative patients following cataract surgery.

Keywords: Postoperative Inflammation; Dexamethasone Phosphate 0.1%; Diclofenac sodium 0.1%.