Study Finds Safe and Effective Cataract Surgery for Both Eyes in One Session

A recent examination presented at the 43rd Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) has revealed promising findings regarding cataract surgery, indicating that performing the procedure on both eyes simultaneously can be a safe and effective approach for many patients.

In a significant study conducted by researchers from Denmark, it was found that a majority of patients who underwent cataract surgery on both eyes in a single day were able to manage their daily activities independently afterward. This included tasks such as preparing meals and using mobile devices. The study surveyed 157 patients who participated in immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS) and found that 88% were able to navigate their homes without assistance right after returning from the hospital. Additionally, 79% of them successfully prepared food, while 51% could use their mobile phones without help.

Another study, led by researchers in the United Kingdom at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, evaluated the visual outcomes of patients who had undergone same-day cataract surgery. This investigation included nearly 10,200 patients and highlighted that those who received their cataract surgery on both eyes in one session achieved visual results equivalent to or better than those undergoing traditional separate procedures. The study noted that patients who received multifocal lenses during same-day surgery experienced the best outcomes, with 85% achieving 20/20 vision or better.

Cataracts, characterized by the clouding of the eye's lens, are prevalent, particularly in older demographics. The standard practice has been to perform surgeries on each eye separately, often weeks apart, a method known as delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery (DSBCS). However, the trend is shifting toward ISBCS, which involves operating on both eyes during the same surgical session. Despite this shift, concerns linger regarding the effectiveness and safety of immediate bilateral surgery compared to the traditional approach, as well as patients' ability to cope with their recovery afterwards.

The Danish study indicated that while many patients could handle their immediate post-operative care, some still required assistance, particularly with tasks like administering eye drops. Of those studied, 62% reported they did not need a caregiver on the first day after surgery. The lead researcher emphasized the importance of preparing patients for temporary support if needed while also advocating for the benefits of same-day surgeries, which could lead to fewer clinic visits and enhanced efficiency in healthcare.

In the UK study, the researchers analyzed various factors, including the type of lenses patients received, and found that multifocal lenses significantly improved visual outcomes. Patients who received these lenses during same-day surgeries were notably more successful in achieving visual clarity and prescription accuracy compared to those who had separate surgeries. This finding holds potential implications for patient recovery and overall satisfaction.

Experts in the field have recognized the advantages of performing cataract surgery on both eyes during the same session, noting benefits such as reduced waiting times, quicker visual recovery, and fewer necessary follow-up appointments, all while maintaining high standards of patient safety and outcomes.

Despite the promising results, there remains a need for caution and further research to ensure that simultaneous surgeries do not elevate the risks of complications during or after procedures. The findings from these studies serve to reassure both patients and healthcare providers about the viability of same-day cataract surgeries.