Cataract Blindness in Developing Countries Procedure of Choice for a Large Population

PK Malik, PK Keshri, A Pathak, HK Yadhuvanshi, P Kapoor
Department of Ophthalmology, Dr Ram Manohar
Lohia Hospital, New Delhi ­ 110001, India

Purpose: A study was performed to compare the merits of phacoemulsification with non-phacoemulsification small incision cataract surgery. Additionally, the use of 5.5mm non-foldable intraocular lenses was compared with foldable intraocular lenses. The cost-effectiveness of these procedures was evaluated.

Patients and Methods: 750 patients were enrolled in the study. Phacoemulsification with foldable intraocular lenses was performed for 250 patients (group A). Non-foldable phacoprofile intraocular lenses after phacoemulsification were implanted for 250 patients (group B). 250 patients had non-phacoemulsification small incision cataract surgery using phacoprofile non-foldable intraocular lenses (group C). The incision site and extent were similar for all patients. Non-phacoemulsification small incision cataract surgery was performed by a modified phacofracture technique.

Results: Postoperative complications and visual rehabilitation were comparable for patients in all 3 groups.

Conclusions: The non-phacoemulsification small incision cataract surgery technique with a phacoprofile non-foldable lens is feasible as the procedure of choice for a large population in a developing country.