Indication for cataract surgery. Do we have evidence of who will benefit from surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Visual acuity changes in the preoperative period in patients undergoing cataract surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study quantifies change in best visual acuity (BVA) over the preoperative period and assesses factors associated with postoperative outcomes.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review conducted at a single institution.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 691 patients underwent cataract surgery and had a preoperative assessment 0-30 days prior to surgery following their surgical evaluation.

METHODS

Baseline demographics and past medical and clinical data were collected through electronic medical record query. BVA was noted at initial surgical evaluation, preoperative assessment, and nearest postoperative assessment.

RESULTS

A total of 691 patients (911 eyes) were included with mean BVAs at the initial evaluation, preoperative assessment, and postoperative assessment of 68.3 ± 16.8, 64.6 ± 18.5, and 81.1 ± 12.0 ETDRS letters, respectively. Mean BVA was significantly higher postoperatively compared with the preoperative assessment and initial evaluation (p < 0.0001). There was a mean of 53.8 days between initial surgical evaluation and surgery date and a mean of 49.9 days between the preoperative assessment and initial surgical evaluation. The mean interval between the preoperative assessment and surgery was 11.7 days. In the preoperative period, 9.1% of eyes experienced worsening of BVA by >3 lines and 0.9% experienced improvement of BVA by >3 lines. Time to surgery was significantly associated with change in postoperative BVA (effect size, -0.03 ETDRS letters; p = 0.015) but was not significant on multiple linear regression. BVA at initial evaluation, glaucoma, and glaucoma surgery were all significantly associated with postoperative outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Most eyes experienced stable vision in the preoperative period for cataract surgery. On average, patients with high BVAs at the time of initial surgical evaluation may be able to defer surgery without the risk of poorer surgical outcomes.

Cataract Phacoemulsification in People with Dementia: Characterization and Outcomes

PURPOSE

To characterize cataract surgery in people with dementia (PWD) using a cataract surgery outcomes database.

METHODS

Demographics, medical and ocular history, surgical characteristics, and postoperative measures were analyzed for differences between PWD and non-PWD cohorts. Patient-level data were analyzed with Fisher's Exact Test, and eye-level data were analyzed with logistic regression using generalized estimating equations to account for correlation of eyes from the same individual.

RESULTS

507 eyes from 296 PWD were identified using appropriate ICD codes and cross-referenced to a cataract surgery outcomes database containing 12,949 eyes from 7,853 patients who underwent cataract phacoemulsification at a single center between January 2014 and October 2019. PWD were older (p < .001), had shorter duration cataract surgeries (p = .006), and were more likely to have mature cataract (p = .017). The rate of general anesthesia was higher in PWD (p = .005). There were no differences in complication rates between PWD and non-PWD cohorts. Both preoperative best corrected LogMAR distance visual acuity (CDVA) (p < .001) and postoperative CDVA (p < .001) were worse in PWD. CDVA significantly improved in both groups (p < .001); however, the average magnitude of improvement in CDVA was not significantly different between groups (p = .169).

CONCLUSIONS

PWD present for cataract surgery at a later age and were more likely to have mature cataracts and general anesthesia, but did not have higher rates of complication, and showed significant improvement in CDVA following surgery. These findings should be encouraging to PWD undergoing counseling for cataract surgery, and for the potential for improved function in PWD.

Visual Acuity Prior to Cataract Surgery and Risk of Retinal Detachment - A Population-Based Study

Purpose

To analyze preoperative visual acuity before cataract surgery regarding the risk of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) after cataract surgery.

Methods

The preoperative visual acuity in an observational cohort study of patients undergoing cataract surgery in Skåne, southern Sweden, during 2015-2017 was analyzed with data retrieved from the Swedish National Cataract Register. This was then cross-referenced with patients undergoing surgery for retinal detachment at the Skåne University Hospital in Lund from 2015 to 2020. The main outcome was the risk-benefit ratio of measuring preoperative visual acuity before cataract surgery and the risk of RRD.

Results

The mean visual acuity in the whole study group (N=58,624), expressed as LogMAR, was 0.40 ± 0.32 (SD). In the group with RRD (n=298), the mean visual acuity was 0.44 ± 0.36 (p=0.07). In the subgroups of RRD, those aged <60 years 0.49 ± 0.44 (p=0.07), aged <60 years and axial length (AL) >25 mm 0.42 ± 0.38 (p=0.68), and in those aged <60 years, AL >25 mm and male sex 0.44 ± 0.39 (p=0.53). However, there is considerable variations in visual acuity of the various groups and in the high-risk group with RRD aged <60 years with AL>25 mm, 15% had a visual acuity of 0.8 or better in the operated eye.

Conclusion

There must be strong indications for performing cataract surgery in those with a high risk of retinal detachment, and the patient must be given adequate information on the risk of retinal detachment.

Comparison of dynamic defocus curve on cataract patients implanting extended depth of focus and monofocal intraocular lens

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to compare the dynamic defocus curve on patients post-implantation of the extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) and monofocal intraocular lens (IOL).

METHODS

A total of 62 age-related cataract patients receiving phacoemulsification with implantation of TECNIS Symfony (ZXR00) or monofocal IOLs were enrolled. The binocular static and dynamic defocus curves with corrected distance visual acuity were evaluated at one month postoperatively.

RESULTS

The ZXR00 group achieved significantly better intermediate (P = 0.044) and near (P = 0.017) visual acuity (VA) than the monofocal group. Two groups had similar uncorrected and corrected distance VA (P > 0.05, respectively). The dynamic defocus curve revealed a smoother decline from 0.0 D to - 2.0 D in the ZXR00 group. Defocused dynamic VA in the ZXR00 group was significantly better (P < 0.05) except at 0.0 D (P = 0.724) and - 0.5 D (P = 0.176). The area under the curve (P = 0.002) and corrected dynamic vision accommodation (P = 0.001) derived from the dynamic defocus curves were better in the ZXR00 group. A positive correlation was observed between defocused dynamic and static VA in both groups (P < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that defocused static VA and corrected dynamic vision accommodation were significant influential factors for the defocused dynamic VA from - 1.0 D to - 3.0 D (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The EDOF IOL provided similar distance vision, better intermediate and near vision, and a better overall dynamic defocus curve than the monofocal IOL. The dynamic defocus curve may be comprehensively applied to evaluate the all-distance dynamic visual performance post-cataract surgery.

The prediction capability of a cataract surgery risk stratification model based on a large electronic medical record dataset

Purpose

The aim of this study was to develop a risk stratification system that predicts visual outcomes (uncorrected corrected visual acuity at one week and five weeks postoperative) in patients undergoing cataract surgery.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis in a multitier ophthalmology network. Data from all patients who underwent phacoemulsification or manual small-incision cataract surgery between January 2018 and December 2019 were retrieved from an electronic medical record system. There were 122,911 records; 114,172 (92.9%) had complete data included. Logistic regression analyzed unsatisfactory postoperative outcomes using a main effects model only. The final model was cross-checked using forward stepwise selection. The Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test, the Bayesian information criterion, and Nagelkerke's R² assessed model fit. Dispersion was calculated from deviance and degrees of freedom and C-stat from receiving operating characteristics analysis.

Results

The final phacoemulsification model (n = 48,169) had a dispersion of 1.08 with a Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit of 0.20, a Nagelkerke R² of 0.19, and a C-stat of 0.72. The final manual small-incision cataract surgery model (n = 66,003) had a dispersion of 1.05 with a Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit of 0.00015, a Nagelkerke R² of 0.14, and a C-stat of 0.68.

Conclusion

The phacoemulsification model had reasonable model fit; the manual small-incision cataract surgery model had poor fit and was likely missing variables. The predictive capability of these models based on a large, real-world cataract surgical dataset was suboptimal to determine which patients could benefit most from sight-restoring surgery. Appropriate patient selection for cataract surgery in developing settings should still rely on clinician thought processes, intuition, and experience, with more complex cases allocated to more experienced surgeons.

Long-Term Functional Hyperemia after Uncomplicated Phacoemulsification: Benefits beyond Restoring Vision

The purpose of the study was to investigate the long-term effects of uncomplicated phacoemulsification on macular perfusion using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in healthy aging subjects. OCTA was performed before phacoemulsification and 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after. Superficial vascular complex (formed of nerve fiber layer vascular plexus and superficial vascular plexus), deep vascular complex (formed of intermediate capillary plexus and deep capillary plexus), as well as choriocapillaris (CC) and large choroidal blood vessels were recorded. Significant changes of vascular parameters in 95 eyes of 95 patients reached plateau 1 week after surgery and remained stable up to 6 months, occurring in all retinal layers but not in choroid and CC. Statistically significant increases in retinal vessels area, vessels percentage area, total number of junctions, junctions density, and total and average vessels length were found, followed by the total number of end points and mean lacunarity decline, proving an increase in blood supply. The study confirmed that uncomplicated phacoemulsification leads to a long-term increase in macular retinal perfusion. The results might ease the decision regarding timing for cataract surgery as long-term perfusion benefits can be achieved. Furthermore, study results provide a normative database of retinal and choroidal vasculature in healthy aging patients.

A Systematic Review of the Effects of Second-Eye Cataract Surgery on Motor Function

Cataract removal surgery is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedure in developed countries. The financial and staff resource cost that first-eye cataract surgery incurs, leads to restricted access to second-eye cataract surgery (SES) in some areas, including the United Kingdom. These restrictions have been imposed despite a lack of knowledge about the impact of not performing SES on visuo-motor function. To this end, a systematic literature review was carried out, with the aim of synthesising our present understanding of the effects of SES on motor function. Key terms were searched across four databases, PsycINFO, Medline, Web of Science, and CINAHL. Of the screened studies (K = 499) 13 met the eligibility criteria. The homogeneity between participants, study-design and outcome measures across these studies was not sufficient for meta-analyses and a narrative synthesis was carried out. The evidence from objective sources indicates a positive effect of SES on both mobility and fall rates, however, when considering self-report measures, the reduction in falls associated with SES becomes negligible. The evidence for any positive effect of SES on driving is also mixed, whereby SES was associated with improvements in simulated driving performance but was not associated with changes in driving behaviours measured through in vehicle monitoring. Self-report measures of driving performance also returned inconsistent results. Whilst SES appears to be associated with a general trend towards improved motor function, more evidence is needed to reach any firm conclusions and to best advise policy regarding access to SES in an ageing population. Systematic Review Registration: https://osf.io/7hne6/, identifier INPLASY2020100042.

Visual Function in Children With Posterior Lens Opacities Before and After Surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the visual function before and after cataract surgery in children with congenital posterior lens opacities as well as the factors associated with a good visual outcome.

DESIGN

Perspective case-series study.

METHODS

Pediatric patients with posterior lens opacities who underwent cataract surgery were recruited in this study. The cataract type, location, area of opacities, and strabismus were examined perioperatively. Moreover, visual acuity, modulation transfer function (MTF), ocular aberrations, and stereopsis were measured before and after cataract surgery.

RESULTS

Sixty-nine eyes of 63 patients were studied. The mean age of patients at surgery was 6.5 ± 2.9 years. Visual function including corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), MTF cutoff frequency, and ocular aberrations were significantly affected in eyes with posterior lens opacities. Postoperatively, CDVA was significantly improved from 0.81 ± 0.53 logMAR to 0.40 ± 0.40 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (P < .001). Thirty-nine patients (56.5%) achieved a final VA of 20/40 or better. Moreover, MTF cutoff values were significantly improved, and total ocular aberrations were decreased after cataract removal (both P < .001). The stereopsis was also improved postoperatively (P < .001). The multivariate analysis of the risk factors for postoperative CDVA showed that worse preoperative CDVA, larger size of lens opacities, and mean keratometry were the risk factors (all P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Visual function can be significantly decreased in children with posterior lens opacities, and surgery was effective in improving visual function. Patients with a CDVA of 0.52 logMAR or better, a size of lens opacity <6.5 mm² and smaller mean keratometry had a greater CDVA postoperatively.

Should We Perform Early Cataract Surgery? A Patient Reported Outcome Study

Purpose

Current guidance states that access to cataract surgery should not be restricted by visual acuity (VA); nevertheless, 6/12 is used as a cut-off criterion in some health institutions. This study aims to determine the benefits of performing cataract surgery in patients with VA of 6/9 or better in both eyes; determine whether these benefits change over time; and compare the benefit observed between early first eye and second eye surgery.

Patients and Methods

Fifty adults with VA at least 6/9 in the worst eye and no ocular comorbidity were recruited. The Visual Function Index (VF-14) and Impact of Visual Impairment (IVI) questionnaires were conducted pre-operatively, 4 months post-operatively, and 12 months post-operatively. The t-test or a non-parametric equivalent was used to compare averages between groups.

Results

The mean change in VF-14 from baseline to 4 months was 16.43 (95% CI 12.49–20.50, p < 0.001) and the median change in IVI was 6.5 (IQR 9.75, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between 4-month and 12-month follow-up (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the change in visual function between the first and second eye surgery (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that visual function improves after cataract surgery in patients with pre-operative VA of 6/9 or better. The improvement observed was clinically significant and unchanged a year after surgery. Visual function improved after second eye as much as after first eye surgery. Assessing patient reported visual function may give a more realistic indication of the benefit of early cataract surgery than relying on VA alone.

Efficacy of Large Optic Intraocular Lenses in Myopic Eyes with Posterior Segment Pathology

We report a case series of patients with high myopia (axial length 25.04–27.59 mm) diagnosed with cataract and maculopathy who underwent a combined procedure of phacoemulsification with implantation of a large optic intraocular lens (IOL) and intravitreal injection. Six patients with a mean (± standard deviation) age of 73.20 ± 7.19 years received the 7.0-mm optic ASPIRA-aXA IOL (HumanOptics AG, Erlangen, Germany) and intravitreal injection of aflibercept at the end of the surgery. The corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) improved significantly (p = 0.001) from a preoperative logMAR of 0.87 ± 0.28 logMAR to 0.49 ± 0.18 logMAR at 10 weeks postoperatively. Even though all patients had a persisting central scotoma due to their maculopathy, there was a significant improvement in their subjective quality of life and self-autonomy. Patients reported no postoperative dysphotopsia. During surgery and postoperative examinations, the wide IOL optic permitted an enhanced view of the fundus. The IOLs remained stable after implantation, especially during the intravitreal injection at the end of the surgery. No IOL displacement or shift of the lens was observed. Retinal diseases are sight-threatening and diminish the patient’s quality of life due to reduced visual acuity and visual field defects. When cataract surgery is performed in this patient group, a reduced prognosis can be assumed. Our results show that implantation of the large optic IOL enables a wide view of the fundus during and after surgery without any additional risks or negative effects. It may also reduce the risk of dysphotopsia in cases of IOL decentration in large capsular bags, but comparative studies with a higher number of cases are needed to confirm this. A large rhexis and large IOL optic seem to be advantageous for the retinal surgeon in follow-up surgeries on the posterior segment of the eye.

Cataract Surgery in One-Eyed Patients: A Cohort Study of 100 Patients

Purpose

To determine the course and outcomes of cataract surgery in one-eyed patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University Hospital of Nice, France. All one-eyed patients who underwent cataract surgery in their functional eye between January 2014 and December 2018 were included. A one-eyed patient was defined as having a visual acuity (VA) ≤20/200 in the other eye. Data were collected from the medical records and included the sociodemographic factors, the past medical history, data from the preoperative and postoperative clinical examinations, the surgical course, and the visual outcomes.

Results

One hundred one-eyed patients with a mean age of 74.01 years were included (48 men/52 women). The mean preoperative VA was 20/100 (+0.74 logMAR). The VA ranged between 20/200 and 20/40 in 75 (75%) patients, was >20/40 in 8 (8%), and was <20/200 in 17 (17%) patients. Fifty-eight (58%) patients were operated on an outpatient basis. General or locoregional anesthesia was used in 29 (29%) and 9 (9%) patients, respectively. All cataract surgery procedures were performed by phacoemulsification. Five (5%) patients experienced intraoperative complications. Seventy-three (73%) one-eyed patients achieved a final VA ≥20/40. The mean final VA was 20/50 (+0.37 logMAR) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

A low rate of intraoperative complications was observed in one-eyed patients during cataract surgery. In most cases, a good visual recovery was achieved after cataract surgery, even in patients who experienced a surgical complication.

Dry Eye Disease after Cataract Surgery: Study of its Determinants and Risk Factors

Objectives

To study the incidence of dry eye and its determinants in patients undergoing cataract surgery.

Materials and Methods

One hundred twenty patients with senile cataract underwent Schirmer's test, tear break-up time (TBUT) test, lissamine green staining of the cornea and conjunctiva, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) for evaluation of dry eye preoperatively and again at first and second follow-up examinations at 1 week and 1 month after cataract surgery.

Results

Mean age of the patients was 59.25+9.77 years and 73 (60.8%) were men. None of the patients had dry eye at the time of enrollment as per the criteria of our study. Postoperatively, Schirmer's test values ranged from 12-35 mm and 8-24 mm at first and second follow-ups, respectively. Mean TBUT was 13.16±2.45 and 9.64±2.20 seconds, while lissamine green staining score was 3 in 67 (55.8%) and 1 in 67 (55.8%) subjects at first and second follow-up, respectively. OSDI values ranged from 1-30 and 10-33 with a mean of 25.97±5.34 and 11.96±7.47 respectively at first and second follow-up. At first follow-up, 89.1% of the 56 patients who underwent phacoemulsification were found to have grade 2 dry eye (p<0.001), while 92.2% of the 64 patients who underwent small-incision cataract surgery (SICS) had grade 2 dry eye (p<0.001). At second follow-up, grade 0 dry eye was observed in 92.2% of the patients who underwent phacoemulsification and 82.1% of the patients who underwent SICS (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The incidence of dry eye after cataract surgery was high and mostly independent of demographic and anthropometric profile, type of surgical procedure, time of microscope exposure, and amount of energy used. This dryness was transient in nature and showed a declining trend, tending to achieve normalization by the end of 1 month.

Application of evidence-based nursing in patients after cataract surgery and its impacts on visual acuity recovery and psychological status

OBJECTIVE

To probe into the evidence-based nursing in patients after cataract surgery and its impact on their visual acuity recovery and psychological status.

METHODS

Ninety-seven patients with cataract who underwent surgery in our hospital were randomly divided into control group (n=48, receiving conventional nursing) and observation group (n=49, receiving evidence-based nursing) for a prospective study. Postoperative visual acuity recovery, incidence of complications, recurrence rate within 1 year, psychological status before and after surgery and quality of life were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The best corrected visual acuity of the affected eye of patients at 3 and 6 months after surgery in both groups was significantly higher than that before surgery, with the best corrected visual acuity of the same period in the observation group higher than that in the control group (all P<0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications and recurrence rate within 1 year in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (all P<0.05). Three months after operation, the scores of Hamilton Anxiety Scale and Hamilton Depression Scale in the two groups were lower than those before operation, with the scores in the observation group lower than those in the control group (all P<0.05); and the scores of all items in Generic Quality of Life Inventory in the two groups were higher than those before operation, with the scores in the observation group higher than those in the control group (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Evidence-based nursing for patients after cataract surgery can significantly improve the recovery of patients' postoperative visual acuity, reduce the incidence of postoperative complications as well as the recurrence rate. It also helps to improve the adverse psychological status of patients and their postoperative quality of life.

Cataract Surgical Services in Palestine

Purpose: Cataract surgery, quantity and quality, is an indicator of ophthalmic care. A comprehensive assessment of cataract surgical services has never been carried out in Palestine, including West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem. The objective of this study was to estimate the cataract surgical rate in 2015 to and to explore the modes of payment and referral systems.Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted between June and August 2016. Medical Directors from Cataract Surgical Centres in Palestine were interviewed using a structured questionnaire to extract data on cataract output and surgical techniques. Additionally, data were collected on modes of payment for cataract services. The cataract surgical rate was calculated by dividing the total cataract output in 2015 by the estimated population of Palestine in millions.Results: In 2015, 9908 cataract surgeries were carried out in 22 centres. The cataract surgical rate was 2,117 operations per million population. Phacoemulsification was the most common technique (73.4%), however in government centres 67% were performed by extracapsular cataract extraction.In the Gaza Strip, 56.6% of cataract surgeries were operated at government centres, and 42.8% were operated at NGO centres while in West Bank, only 12% of cataract surgeries were operated at government centres, with two-thirds of cataracts diagnosed at governmental centres being referred to private and NGO centres. Seventy eight percent of cataract surgeries were funded by insurance, of which the government insurance scheme contributed 65%.Conclusion: The cataract surgical rate in Palestine falls short of the required WHO target. The majority of cataract surgeries are funded by insurance.

A decision aid to facilitate informed choices among cataract patients: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of a patient decision aid on the quality of decision-making for patients with age-related cataracts.

METHODS

773 patients with cataracts aged 50-80 years were randomly assigned to receive either the intervention decision aid (including standard information, quantitative information on the possible outcomes of cataract surgery and a value clarification exercise) or the control booklet (including standard information). The primary outcome was informed choice (defined as adequate knowledge and congruency between attitudes and surgical intentions), which was assessed at 2 weeks after intervention via a telephone interview.

RESULTS

The decision aid increased the proportion of participants making an informed choice, from 5.68 % in the control group to 27.7 % in the intervention group (P < 0.001). Compared with controls, more participants in the intervention group had adequate overall knowledge about cataract surgery (36.8 % vs. 8.79 % in controls; P < 0.001), and fewer participants intended to undergo surgery (22.5 % vs. 34.1 % in controls; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Use of the patient decision aid may increase the proportion of patients making informed choices. Importantly, it might also reduce the acceptance of operations.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Patient decision aids represent a simple and low-cost tool to facilitate informed choice among patients with cataracts.

Comparative clinical trial of intracameral ropivacaine vs. lignocaine in subjects undergoing phacoemulsification under augmented topical anesthesia

Purpose:

To compare intracameral Ropivacaine to Lignocaine during phacoemulsification under augmented topical anesthesia, in terms of efficacy and safety.

Methods:

This prospective, randomized, double-masked clinical trial included subjects planned for phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation for visually significant uncomplicated senile cataract, under augmented topical anesthesia. Cases were randomized into two groups, Group A (Ropivacaine 0.1%) or Group B (Lignocaine 1.0%). The pain experienced by the patients during the surgery, mydriasis, post-op inflammation and endothelial cell change at six weeks after the procedure was evaluated. Surgeon's feedback was recorded to evaluate the cooperation of the patient during surgery.

Results:

A total of 210 subjects were screened and 184 were randomized to have 92 subjects in each group. There was no statistically significant difference seen on comparing Group A and B with respect to Age (P = 0.05), painful surgical steps (P = 0.85), visual analog scale scores (P = 0.65), surgeon's score (P = 0.11), postoperative inflammation (P = 0.90) and average ultrasound time during phacoemulsification (P = 0.10). Subjects in Group A fared better when compared to Group B with respect to endothelial cell loss (P = 0.0008), and augmentation in mydriasis (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Intracameral Ropivacaine and Lignocaine, both are equally effective in providing analgesia during phacoemulsification. However, intracameral Ropivacaine is superior to Lignocaine with regards to corneal endothelial cell safety, and augmenting mydriasis.

Validity of the French version of Catquest-9SF and use of an electronic notepad for entering patient-reported outcome measures

Background

The Catquest-9SF questionnaire is a patient reported outcome measure that quantifies the visual benefits from cataract surgery. The purpose of this study was to translate and adapt the Catquest-9SF questionnaire for France, to assess its psychometric properties via Rasch analysis, and to assess its validity when completed using an electronic notepad.

Methods

The Catquest-9SF questionnaire was translated following the guidelines of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research. Catquest-9SF and clinical data were collected from patients before and after routine cataract surgery. All questionnaire data were collected via an electronic notepad. Rasch analysis was performed to assess psychometric properties, and sensitivity to change was analysed for patients with complete paired pre- and post-operative questionnaires.

Results

A complete filled-in preoperative questionnaire was obtained for 848 patients. Rasch analysis showed good precision (person separation: 2.32, person reliability: 0.84), ordered category probability curves, no item misfit, and unidimensionality. The respondents were slightly more able than the level of item difficulty (targeting: −1.12 logits). Sensitivity was analysed on 211 paired questionnaires, and the postoperative questionnaires showed a clear ceiling effect. The effect size was 2.6. The use of an electronic notepad for completing the questionnaire worked out very well after some adjustments.

Conclusions

The French version of Catquest-9SF has good psychometric properties and is suitable for use in French-speaking patients. The use of the Catquest-9SF questionnaire in an electronic format showed good validity.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40662-021-00233-7.

Measuring aniseikonia tolerance range for stereoacuity - a tool for the refractive surgeon

Objective

No method exists to measure aniseikonia tolerance in stereoacuity. The brain can compensate for 2%–3% aniseikonia (i.e. 2–3 dioptres of anisometropia) without impairing stereoacuity; however, a substantial proportion of anisometropic patients experience problems caused by disruptions of sensory fusion due to surgically induced aniseikonia. We hypothesized that individual differences in tolerance to aniseikonia exist and sought to develop a method to measure aniseikonia tolerance.

Methods

A total of 21 eye‐healthy phakic individuals older than 50 years of age and 11 patients awaiting clear lens extraction were included. Patients were tested with best corrected near and distance visual acuity, cover/uncover test, eye dominance test, stereoacuity threshold (TNO test), slit lamp examination and ocular coherence tomography. The stereoacuity threshold was determined with aniseikonia induced by different size lenses ranging from 1% to 9% magnification of both eyes in increments of 1%. The aniseikonia tolerance range (ATR) was defined as the percentage aniseikonia in which the stereoacuity threshold was maintained.

Results

We examined 32 patients with a median age of 65 (95% CI: 62–66 years), CDVA better than 6/7.5 (0.1 logMAR), and median near visual acuity better than 6/6 (0.0 logMAR). The median stereoacuity threshold was 60 arcsec (maximum 30, minimum 120). We observed large inter‐individual differences in ATR: 6/31 (19%) participants had an ATR of ≤1%, 1/31 (3%) had an ATR of 1‐5%, 7/31 (22%) had an ATR of 5‐10%, and 17/31 (54%) had an ATR of >10%.

Conclusion

We present a reliable method for measuring the amount of aniseikonia that a person can tolerate without impairing stereopsis. We report large inter‐individual differences in tolerance of aniseikonia.

Predicting changes in cataract surgery health outcomes using a cataract surgery appropriateness and prioritization instrument

Objective

Determine whether items in a cataract surgery appropriateness and prioritization questionnaire can predict change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and health related quality of life (HRQOL) following cataract surgery.

Methods

313 patients with a cataract in Ontario, Canada were recruited to participate. BCVA was measured using the Snellen chart. HRQOL was measured using a generic instrument (EQ5D), a visual functioning instrument (Catquest-9SF), and an appropriateness and prioritization instrument (17 items). Outcomes were measured preoperatively and 3–6 months postoperatively. Descriptive statistics were used to describe demographics and outcomes. For each appropriateness and prioritization questionnaire item, a one-way ANOVA was used to compare group means of the change in BCVA, EQ5D, and Catquest-9SF.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 69 years and were 56% female. BCVA improved in 81%, EQ5D in 49.6%, and Catquest-9SF score in 84% of patients. Improvement in both BCVA and Catquest-9SF scores were found in 68.5% of patients. The ANOVA showed a statistically significant association between a change in BCVA and the ability to participate in social life, and a statistically significant association between a change in Catquest-9SF and glare, extent of impairment in visual function, safety and injury concerns, ability to work and care for dependents, ability to take care of local errands, ability to assist others and ability to participate in social life.

Conclusions

Almost all patients had improved BCVA and/or visual functioning after surgery. Seven variables from the cataract appropriateness and prioritization instrument were found to be predictors of improvement in Catquest-9SF measuring visual functioning.

Visual Acuity Outcomes after Phacoemulsification in Eyes with Good Visual Acuity before Cataract Surgery

OBJECTIVE

to analyse cataract surgery outcomes and related factors in eyes presenting with good visual acuity.

SUBJECT AND METHODS

A retrospective longitudinal study of patients undergoing phacoemulsification between 2014 and 2018 in Moorfields Eye Hospital was conducted. Pre- and post-operative visual acuities were analysed. Inclusion criteria were age ≥40 years and pinhole visual acuity ≥6/9 pre-operatively. Exclusion criteria were no post-operative visual acuity data. The visual acuity change variable was also defined according to post-operative visual acuity being above or below the Snellen 6/9 threshold.

RESULTS

2,720 eyes were included. The unaided logMAR visual acuity improved from 0.54 to 0.20 (p < 0.001), the logMAR visual acuity with glasses improved from 0.35 to 0.05 (p < 0.001), and the logMAR pinhole visual acuity improved from 0.17 to 0.13 (p < 0.001); 8.1% of patients had Snellen visual acuity <6/9 post-operatively. Mean follow-up period was 23.6 ± 9.9 days. In multivariate analysis, factors associated with visual acuity <6/9 post-operatively were age (OR = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.95, 0.98], p < 0.001), vitreous loss (OR = 0.21, 95% CI [0.08, 0.56], p = 0.002), and iris trauma (OR = 0.28, 95% CI [0.10, 0.82] p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Visual acuity improved significantly, although at least 8.1% of them did not reach their pinhole preoperative visual acuity. Worse visual acuity outcomes were associated with increasing age, vitreous loss, and iris trauma. The 6/9 vision threshold may not be able to accurately differentiate those who may benefit from cataract surgery and those who may not.

Knowledge about benefits and risks of undergoing cataract surgery among cataract patients in Southern China

PURPOSE

To develop a theoretical framework for assessing knowledge about the possible outcomes of undergoing cataract surgery, and explore the association of knowledge level with psychological status and decision quality among patients with cataract in Southern China.

METHODS

The details of the knowledge scale were based on the health education information booklet provided by National Eye Institute, NIH. We used a theory-based approach to assess gist knowledge, which comprises 12 questions related to knowledge of the possible surgical outcomes. The scale was then used in a cross-sectional study to assess the association of knowledge score with psychological status and decision quality among cataract patients.

RESULTS

A total of 489 participants with age-related cataract were included in this study, and 10.2% (50/489) of them had adequate level of knowledge. The knowledge scale was significantly associated to the levels of worry (Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.36, 95%CI: 0.18, 0.70; P = 0.003), anxiety (beta coefficient = - 5.36, 95%CI - 8.88, - 1.84; P = 0.003), inaction regret (OR = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.28, 0.88; P = 0.016) and decision conflict (beta coefficient = - 7.93, 95%CI - 12.81, - 3.04; P = 0.002) in multivariate analyses adjusted for age, sex, education level and literacy level.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge adequacy with cataract surgery outcomes was negatively associated with cataract worry, anxiety and decisional conflict. Patients with adequate knowledge were more likely to postpone cataract surgery.

Patient-centred and economic effectiveness of a decision aid for patients with age-related cataract in China: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

The need for cataract surgery is on the rise due to our ageing population and high demands for greater visual functioning. Although the majority of patients want to participate in a shared decision-making process, no decision aid has been available to improve the quality of decision. The present study aims to determine whether a decision aid increases informed decision about cataract surgery.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

A parallel randomised controlled trial (772 participants) will be conducted. The decision aid will be implemented among patients with any age-related cataract in Yuexiu District, which is socioeconomically representative of a major metropolitan region in Southern China. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a patient decision aid or a traditional booklet, and they will complete three surveys: (1) baseline assessment before the intervention (time point (T)1), 2 weeks (T2) and 1 year (T3) after the intervention. The control group receives a traditional booklet with standard general information developed by the National Eye Institute to help patients understand cataract, whereas the intervention group receives a patient decision aid that includes not only the standard general information, but also the quantitative risk information on the possible outcomes of cataract surgery as well as value clarification exercise. The primary study outcome is the informed decision, the percentage of patients who have adequate knowledge and demonstrate consistency between attitudes and intentions. Secondary outcomes include perceived importance of cataract surgery benefits/harms, decision conflict and confidence, anticipated regret and booklet utilisation and acceptability at 2 weeks, and surgical rates and a cost-utility estimate of the decision aid at 1 year.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center (reference number: 2019KYPJ090). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific meetings for academic audiences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03992807.

Correlation between changes in intraocular pressure and refractive error indices post Cataract Surgery

Objective:

To evaluate the correlation between refractive errors and change in intraocular pressure in patients undergoing cataract surgery.

Methods:

This interventional retrospective case study was carried out from September 2018 to April 2019 at Bodla Eye Care and Multan Medical and Dental College, Multan. A total of 127 eyes were recruited in the study among which six were excluded. Out of remaining 121, 53 eyes were emmetropes, 41 were mild myopes and 27 were high myopes. Single surgeon performed the procedure. Pre-operative investigations of IOP and refractive error were done by goldmann tonometry and auto refractometry. IOP was reviewed at day 1, 7, 14 and 28 post cataract surgeries.

Results:

Out of 121 eyes, 53 eyes were emmetropes, 41 were mild myopes and 27 were high myopes, who underwent phacoemulsification. There was an elevation of 2-3mm Hg at Day-1, in emmetropes and mild myopes, and further on, a constant drop was noticed on follow ups. In high myopes a significant fluctuation of IOP was noted in first fourteen days followed by an unremarkable gradual decline afterwards.

Conclusion:

Cataract surgery helps lowering the IOP in patients with refractive errors. Mild myopic and emmetropic patients showed a linear swift pattern while high myopes presented instable and gradual reduction in IOP. A total decrease of 1-2mm Hg was seen at the end of the study depicting that relation between IOP and cataract surgery is insignificant.

Validation and application of Catquest-9SF in various populations: A systematic review

Cataract is a common cause of reversible blindness. Visual acuity alone is not enough to assess appropriateness for surgery, prioritization, and outcomes. Catquest-9SF questionnaire evaluates patients' self-assessed visual function as related to daily tasks. We summarize and assess the validity of Catquest-9SF as a patient-reported outcome questionnaire to determine its suitability for clinical use. Thirteen studies with sample sizes ranging 102-10,886 (total n = 15,289) undertaken from 2009 to 2018 were included. Catquest-9SF showed unidimensionality, ordered response thresholds, and acceptable precision in all studies. Nine studies had significant mistargeting (range 0.66 to -2.04); the tasks being easy relative to the respondent ability in most studies. Two studies had misfitting items. We conclude Catquest-9SF is a valid and reliable tool to measure visual function in patients with cataract in various populations. Because results can be population specific, it is recommended that Catquest-9SF be validated in a new population before it is incorporated in routine practice.

Standardising the cataract referral process for public hospitals: perspectives of optometrists in New South Wales, Australia

BACKGROUND

Previous research has shown that cataract surgery referral letters to major metropolitan public hospitals in New South Wales have insufficient detail to inform patient triage or apply prioritisation tools. This study aimed to canvass the views of optometrists working in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory (NSW/ACT) on standardising the referral process for public hospital cataract surgery.

METHODS

An online survey was sent to all NSW/ACT members of Optometry Australia in October 2017. Respondents were asked to select clinical and personal information to be included on a referral template using a list of 25 items. Data were also gathered on preferences for the cataract referral process and sources of cataract referral guidelines.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirteen (response rate 13 per cent) optometrists completed the survey. There was close to universal support for inclusion of items like visual acuity (99 per cent), whereas other items had low support, including the date and details of previous refraction (26 per cent), history of falls (29 per cent) and health insurance status (29 per cent). Three-quarters of optometrists stated they would be willing to administer and report data from a patient survey about the functional impact of their cataract and level of visual disability. The preferred format of a standardised cataract referral template varied, although time efficiency and ease of completion were commonly cited reasons for preferences. Confirmation of receipt of referral from the public hospital, and a copy of the referral letter for the optometrist's records were also desirable. For the 61 per cent of respondents who reported accessing guidelines for cataract referral, 69 per cent stated the main source was Optometry NSW/ACT with fewer accessing guidelines directly from a public hospital or the NSW Health website.

CONCLUSION

Optometrists' preferences will be useful to inform the design and implementation of a standardised cataract referral template.

Are Elderly Patients Optimally Corrected with Spectacles in the Longer Term after Cataract Surgery?

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study suggests that patients would benefit from adjusting their distance spectacles several years after cataract surgery. This may lead to a better quality of life for these patients.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine whether patients' distance vision is optimally corrected with spectacles 6 to 7 years after cataract surgery and whether patients with glaucoma who regularly visit an ophthalmologist have more correct power in their spectacles.

METHODS

A total of 153 patients (153 eyes) who underwent cataract surgery with phacoemulsification at Oslo University Hospital were examined 6 to 7 years after surgery. Patients with better or equal best-corrected distance visual acuity in the study eye compared with the other eye were included (n = 90; 59%). Vision-related outcomes were measured and analyzed, including a modified version of the visual function questionnaire, Visual Function-14 (VF-14).

RESULTS

A significant difference was found in the logMAR score between the patients' habitual correction (if any) and those with best-corrected distance visual acuity measured at the postoperative study examination (0.20 ± 0.40 and 0.10 ± 0.39, respectively; P < .0001). Patients with glaucoma (n = 17) did not have more correct power of their spectacles than did patients without glaucoma (n = 73; P = .38). The overall mean VF-14 score was 89%, with a statistically significant correlation between a high VF-14 score and a good habitual distance correction (r = -0.82; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that, although the patients are quite satisfied with their visual function 6 to 7 years after cataract surgery, many patients are not making the most of their visual potential. Thus, there seems to be a need for better monitoring of patients' distance refraction and spectacle use for an extended period after cataract surgery.

Preoperative evaluation for cataract surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide a consolidated update regarding preoperative evaluation for cataract surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Visual acuity alone is a poor gauge of cataract disability. Modalities such as wave front aberrometry, lens densitometry, and light-scatter assessments can quantify optical aspects of cataract and may prove clinically useful in surgical evaluation. Advances in biometry are driving improvements in refractive outcomes, which in turn have increased patient expectations. Future advances in biometry technology may include three-dimensional imaging of the cornea and lens. Screening for ocular comorbidities has become increasingly important, particularly to guide lens selection. Risk stratification systems can help guide surgical decisions and may decrease intraoperative complication rate. A comprehensive medical history and physical is currently mandated for all Medicare patients undergoing cataract surgery but may be of limited utility for low-risk patients.

SUMMARY

Rising patient expectations and a growing number of surgical choices have expanded the cataract preoperative evaluation. A systematic and comprehensive examination which includes identifying any ocular comorbidity is essential for surgical planning and counseling on visual prognosis. New technologies will continue to inform, but not replace, sound clinical judgment.

CATARACTS: Challenge on automatic tool annotation for cataRACT surgery

Surgical tool detection is attracting increasing attention from the medical image analysis community. The goal generally is not to precisely locate tools in images, but rather to indicate which tools are being used by the surgeon at each instant. The main motivation for annotating tool usage is to design efficient solutions for surgical workflow analysis, with potential applications in report generation, surgical training and even real-time decision support. Most existing tool annotation algorithms focus on laparoscopic surgeries. However, with 19 million interventions per year, the most common surgical procedure in the world is cataract surgery. The CATARACTS challenge was organized in 2017 to evaluate tool annotation algorithms in the specific context of cataract surgery. It relies on more than nine hours of videos, from 50 cataract surgeries, in which the presence of 21 surgical tools was manually annotated by two experts. With 14 participating teams, this challenge can be considered a success. As might be expected, the submitted solutions are based on deep learning. This paper thoroughly evaluates these solutions: in particular, the quality of their annotations are compared to that of human interpretations. Next, lessons learnt from the differential analysis of these solutions are discussed. We expect that they will guide the design of efficient surgery monitoring tools in the near future.

From Presbyopia to Cataracts: A Critical Review on Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome

Dysfunctional lens syndrome (DLS) is a term coined to describe the natural aging changes in the crystalline lens. Different alterations in the refractive properties and transparency of the lens are produced during the development of presbyopia and cataract, such as changes in internal high order aberrations or an increase in ocular forward scattering, with a potentially significant impact on clinical measures, including visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. Objective technologies have emerged to solve the limits of current methods for the grading of the lens aging, which have been linked to the DLS term. However, there is still not a gold standard or evidence-based clinical guidelines around these new technologies despite multiple research studies have correlated their results with conventional methods such as visual acuity or the lens opacification system (LOCS), with more scientific background around the ocular scattering index (OSI) and Scheimpflug densitometry. In either case, DLS is not a new evidence-based concept that leads to new knowledge about crystalline lens aging but it is a nomenclature change of two existing terms, presbyopia and cataracts. Therefore, this term should be used with caution in the scientific peer-reviewed literature.

Spectacle use after routine cataract surgery: a study from the Swedish National Cataract Register

PURPOSE

To explore patients' obtaining and use of spectacles after routine cataract surgery.

METHODS

The study included 1329 patients who underwent bilateral surgery with the second eye operated during March 2013 at 38 different clinics in Sweden. Five months after the second-eye surgery, patients completed a five-item questionnaire about their spectacle use preoperatively and postoperatively. The responses were linked to data from the registry on multiple variables including postoperative refraction, age and gender.

RESULTS

Of the 387 patients who were advised by their surgeons to obtain distance spectacles postoperatively, most did so (77.3%, n = 299), while of the 691 patients who were not so advised, most did not obtain spectacles (78.9%, n = 545). Nevertheless, almost 50% of patients with both spherical and cylindrical errors exceeding 1 dioptre (D) did not obtain new distance spectacles postoperatively, while about 25% of patients with bilateral emmetropia (spherical error <0.5 D, cylinder <1 D) obtained new distance spectacles postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Patients' choices regarding obtaining and using new spectacles postoperatively are strongly correlated with advice given by the surgeon about the need for distance correction. The large difference between groups who were and were not advised to obtain spectacles for distance correction was only partially reflected in the postoperative refractive errors. Similarly, the patterns of preoperative spectacle use and gender or age differences did not explain this difference.

Patients' maximum acceptable waiting time for cataract surgery: a comparison at two time-points 7 years apart

PURPOSE

To evaluate the maximum acceptable waiting time (MAWT) of cataract patients and assess the determinants of their perception of MAWT at two time-points 7 years apart.

METHODS

In 2007 (prior to the transformation of our cataract service to a day case unit) and 2014, 500 consecutive patients with cataract were asked to fill in a preoperative questionnaire addressing their MAWT to undergo cataract surgery. The patients' visual impairment (VF-14 score), education and social status were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean MAWT was 3.2 months in both periods, whereas the actual waiting time decreased significantly by 1.7 months (p < 0.001). Patients who had self-noted visual impairment were nearly four times (p < 0.001) more likely to accept only an MAWT of <3 months in 2007. In both periods, patients with a VF-14 score lower than the mean were more likely to accept a shorter MAWT (p = 0.002 and p = 0.034). Living together with children or having relatives close by was associated with a greater acceptance of an MAWT longer than 3 months (p = 0.002 and p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

Reducing the actual mean waiting time had no impact on the mean MAWT. Patients with poor tolerance of waiting had greater self-reported difficulty with vision. Social support was also a strong predictor from the patients' perspective. The VF-14 score had a greater impact than clinical visual acuity (VA) testing. Considering the implementation of standards for waiting lists, objective criteria to guarantee a transparent system should be taken into account.

Management of cataract in uveitis patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review is timely because the outcomes of surgical invention in uveitic eyes with cataract can be optimized with adherence to strict anti-inflammatory principles.

RECENT FINDINGS

All eyes should be free of any cell/ flare for a minimum of 3 months preoperatively. Another helpful maneuver is to place dexamethasone in the infusion fluid or triamcinolone intracamerally at the end of surgery. Recent reports about the choice of intraocular lens material or lens design are germane to the best surgical outcome. Integrating these findings will promote better visual outcomes and allow advancement in research to further refine these surgical interventions in high-risk uveitic eyes.

SUMMARY

Control of inflammation has been shown to greatly improve postoperative outcomes in patients with uveitis. Despite better outcomes, more scientific research needs to be done regarding lens placement and materials and further research needs to adhere to the standardized reporting of uveitis nomenclature. Future studies should improve postoperative outcomes in eyes with uveitis so that they approach those of eyes undergoing routine cataract procedures.

Is an ophthalmic check-up needed after uneventful cataract surgery? A large retrospective comparative cohort study of Finnish patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate retrospectively the potential benefit of a routine 1-month ophthalmic check-up after cataract surgery, and the potential harm after terminating this practice and only organizing a check-up for those patients anticipated to need such.

METHODS

In 2006, cataract patients of the Oulu University Hospital Eye Clinic were advised to have a check-up at an ophthalmologist 1 month after uneventful surgery, while in 2009, no check-up was regarded necessary. The consecutive first 1000 cataract surgery visits in both 2006 and 2009 are included in this study. Data on intra- and postoperative complications, ocular comorbidity, planned and unplanned postoperative out-patient visits, nights in the hospital and phone calls were gathered until 2014. In both time periods, a hospital check-up was provided for patients experiencing complications or symptoms.

RESULTS

There were 31 complications identified during or immediately after cataract surgery in 2006, and 23 in 2009. Fifty-eight (2006) and 27 patients (2009) were assigned an out-patient visit to the hospital. Additional 42 (2006) and 39 patients (2009) contacted the hospital because of symptoms, five (2006) and three (2009) with a referral. Medical or surgical intervention was needed by a third. Long-term complications other than secondary cataract were rare in both groups. Problems attributable to the lack of a 1-month check-up were not found in the later patient group during 5 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

According to this study, ophthalmic check-up arranged at 1 month after uneventful cataract surgery is unnecessary. However, the 5-10% of patients with intraoperative problems or ocular comorbidities that could interfere with recovery, or postoperative symptoms, should be seen at low threshold.

Gestational diabetes and the long-term risk of cataract surgery: A longitudinal cohort study

AIMS

We assessed the long-term risk of cataract following a pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes.

METHODS

We carried out a longitudinal cohort study of 1,108,541 women who delivered infants between 1989-2013 in Quebec, Canada, with follow-up extending up to 25years later. The cohort included 71,862 women with gestational diabetes and 5247 with cataracts. We used Cox regression models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association of gestational diabetes with subsequent risk of cataract, adjusted for age, parity, socioeconomic status, time period, comorbidity, and type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

Women with gestational diabetes had an elevated incidence of cataract (22.6 per 1000) compared with no gestational diabetes (15.1 per 1000), with 1.15 times the risk (95% CI 1.04-1.28). Women with gestational diabetes who subsequently developed type 2 diabetes had a higher risk of cataract compared with no gestational and type 2 diabetes (HR 3.62, 95% CI 3.01-4.35), but women with gestational diabetes who did not develop type 2 diabetes continued to be at risk (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.00-1.25).

CONCLUSIONS

Gestational diabetes may be an independent risk factor for cataract later in life, although risks are greatest for women who subsequently develop type 2 diabetes.

Cataracts

An estimated 95 million people worldwide are affected by cataract. Cataract still remains the leading cause of blindness in middle-income and low-income countries. With the advancement of surgical technology and techniques, cataract surgery has evolved to small-incisional surgery with rapid visual recovery, good visual outcomes, and minimal complications in most patients. With the development of advanced technology in intraocular lenses, the combined treatment of cataract and astigmatism or presbyopia, or both, is possible. Paediatric cataracts have a different pathogenesis, surgical concerns, and postoperative clinical course from those of age-related cataracts, and the visual outcome is multifactorial and dependent on postoperative visual rehabilitation. New developments in cataract surgery will continue to improve the visual, anatomical, and patient-reported outcomes. Future work should focus on promoting the accessibility and quality of cataract surgery in developing countries.

Effects of Light Scatter and Blur on Low-Contrast Vision and Disk Halo Size

PURPOSE

To investigate the individual effects of forward light scatter (FLS) and refractive blur on low-contrast vision and the size of the disk halo produced in response to an external glare source.

METHODS

Monocular disk halo radius, high- and low-contrast distance visual acuity (HCVA, LCVA), and contrast sensitivity (CS) were determined in 25 eyes of 25 healthy subjects under normal, FLS, and blur conditions. FLS was induced using the filter Black ProMist 2 to simulate an early cataract. Blur was induced using a +1.00 diopter lens to simulate an uncorrected refractive error.

RESULTS

Similar significant mean increases in halo radius were observed for the FLS (0.32 ± 0.10 log arc min; P < .0001) and refractive blur (0.40 ± 0.18 log arc min; P < .0001). Under induced blur, 3 lines of HCVA (0.32 ± 0.15 logMAR; P < .0001) and 4 lines of LCVA (0.39 ± 0.16 logMAR; P < .0001) were lost. FLS had a minimal (but significant) effect on HCVA, but worsened mean LCVA by more than 1 line (0.13 ± 0.10 logMAR; P < .0001). Similar significant mean CS reductions of 0.17 ± 0.12 (P < .0001) and 0.14 ± 0.12 log units (P < .0001) were produced in response to FLS and refractive blur, respectively (approximately 1 triplet).

CONCLUSIONS

Forward light scatter and refractive blur contributed to an increased size of the disk halo produced by a glare source in similar proportion. Although defocus blur has a substantial effect on LCVA, a loss of more than 1 line of LCVA after best refractive correction would be indicative of FLS.

Do evidence-based guidelines change clinical practice patterns?

In 2013, the Danish Health and Medicines Authorities published a National Clinical Guideline on the treatment of age-related cataracts. The guideline provided evidence-based recommendations on the indication for cataract surgery, cataract surgery in patients with age-related macular degeneration, on the use of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) to correct preoperative corneal astigmatism, the use of intracameral and topical antibiotics to prevent endophthalmitis, choice of anti-inflammatory medication to control postoperative inflammation and prevent cystoid macular oedema, the use of immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery and on the postoperative check-up of patients. A questionnaire was sent to all members of the Danish Ophthalmological Society before and after publication of the guideline. The responses showed that the guideline had changed practice patterns so that surgeons were more likely to prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops and to not prescribe topical antibiotic eye drops after the guideline was published. Other parameters, most notably the use of toric IOLs and use of postoperative examinations were more guided by reimbursement standards than by evidence-based medicine. Thus, evidence-based guidelines do change practice patterns unless they are counteracted by the reimbursement system.

Validation, test-retest reliability and norm scores for the Dutch Catquest-9SF

PURPOSE

The Catquest-9SF questionnaire is a unidimensional, reliable, valid and short patient-reported outcome measure for quantifying benefits in visual functioning from cataract surgery. Our aim was to develop a formal Dutch translation, calculate norm scores, assess its validity and test-retest reliability and provide an easy way for use in clinical practice.

METHODS

Translation of the questionnaire was performed according to guidelines of the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research. Catquest-9SF was obtained in 657 patients pre- and postcataract surgery. We applied Rasch and classical analyses to determine the questionnaire performance with characteristics such as unidimensionality, reliability, separation and differential item functioning. Test-retest reliability was assessed in another group of 145 patients. A cut-off value to discriminate between people with and without cataract, norm scores and a reliable change index (RCI) were calculated using data from a sample of 916 'healthy' persons from the normal population.

RESULTS

The Dutch Catquest-9SF was unidimensional, and both person and item reliability were high; 0.87 and 0.99, respectively. Cronbach's alpha was 0.94, test-retest reliability was 0.85 and the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.93. Catquest-9SF showed to be responsive to the effect of cataract surgery (effect size = 1.27; p < 0.001). The cut-off value was -1.90, and RCI was 2.27. A quick-access table with norm scores and percentiles was established to facilitate clinical interpretation.

CONCLUSION

This investigation provides validity and reliability of the Dutch Catquest-9SF as well as norm scores and a new tool to facilitate the clinical interpretation of patient scores. This makes Catquest-9SF suitable for routine use in clinical practice.