Our Summary

This study aimed to find out how often a certain eye complication called pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) occurs after a type of cataract surgery called phacoemulsification, and to identify the most significant risk factors for this complication. The researchers also developed a formula and software program to predict the risk of PRD in patients undergoing lens removal surgery.

For this study, the researchers looked at the medical records of 178,515 patients who had lens removal surgery in a group of eye clinics in Spain. They found that 0.85% of these patients developed PRD after their surgery.

The risk of PRD was significantly higher in men, in patients with longer eyes, and in those who experienced a specific surgical complication known as posterior capsule rupture. In fact, having a posterior capsule rupture during surgery increased the risk of PRD by up to fourteen times.

In order of least to most impact, the significant risk factors for PRD after lens removal surgery were age, the length of the eye, sex, and whether or not a posterior capsule rupture occurred during surgery. The researchers hope that their predictive formula and software can be used to estimate the risk of PRD in future patients before they have lens removal surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) and how often does it occur after phacoemulsification?
  2. What are the most significant risk factors for developing PRD after lens removal surgery?
  3. How does the predictive formula and software developed by the researchers help future patients undergoing lens removal surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing retinal detachment surgery to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activities, refraining from rubbing or touching the eye, and attending all follow-up appointments. It’s also important to report any sudden changes in vision or increased pain to your doctor immediately. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are at a higher risk for retinal detachment after cataract surgery, such as those who are male, have longer eyes, and have a posterior capsule rupture during surgery, may be recommended for retinal detachment surgery. Additionally, older patients may also be recommended for surgery if they have other risk factors for retinal detachment. It is important for patients to consult with their ophthalmologist to determine if retinal detachment surgery is necessary in their specific case.

Timeline

Before retinal detachment surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, blurry vision, or a shadow or curtain coming down over their field of vision. These symptoms may indicate a retinal detachment, and prompt the patient to seek medical attention.

After retinal detachment surgery, the patient may experience some discomfort or pain in the eye, as well as redness and swelling. The eye may be covered with a patch or shield for protection, and the patient may need to use eye drops or medication to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It is important for the patient to follow their doctor’s instructions for post-operative care, including attending follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure the success of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about retinal detachment surgery include:

  1. What is retinal detachment and why is surgery necessary to treat it?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with retinal detachment surgery?
  3. How experienced are you in performing retinal detachment surgery?
  4. What is the success rate of retinal detachment surgery?
  5. What is the recovery process like after retinal detachment surgery?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after surgery to prevent future retinal detachments?
  7. What is the likelihood of developing pseudophakic retinal detachment after cataract surgery, and how can I minimize this risk?
  8. What specific factors may increase my risk of developing PRD after lens removal surgery?
  9. How can I determine if I am at a higher risk for PRD before undergoing lens removal surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options for retinal detachment that I should consider?

Reference

Authors: Javaloy J, Druchkiv V, Beltrán J, Moya J, Albarrán-Diego C, Montalbán R, Muñoz G. Journal: Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2021 Jun;259(6):1555-1567. doi: 10.1007/s00417-021-05160-w. Epub 2021 Mar 31. PMID: 33791845