Impact of comprehensive eye examination in identifying the ocular co-morbidities in patients screened for cataract surgery through the out-reach activities.

Abstract

To evaluate the impact of comprehensive eye examination in identifying the ocular co-morbidities in patients presenting for cataract surgery through the community screening program. This was a hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study in a tertiary eye care institute. Comprehensive eye examination was performed for all patients screened for cataract surgery through the out-reach activities. Patients suspected to have any ocular co-morbidity were revaluated by sub-specialty trained ophthalmologists, and further management was planned. The demographic details of patients, sub-specialty consultation, final diagnosis, and type of the treatment received by these patients were recorded. During the study period, 4022 patients were referred to the base hospital for cataract surgery, of whom 922 (22.9%) needed a specialist opinion. Glaucoma (238) and retinal disorders (232) constituted half (51%) of these referrals. There were 313 (33.9%) patients having co-morbidities because of corneal, oculoplastic, and neuro-ophthalmic conditions. After specialist review, 397 (43.1%) patients underwent only cataract surgery, 55 patients (5.9%) underwent combined surgeries, and 168 (18.2%) patients underwent other procedures. Cataract surgery was not performed in 470 (50.9%) patients, of which 302 were prescribed glasses or managed medically. All patients screened for cataract surgery through out-reach programs require a comprehensive eye examination to identify ocular diseases other than cataract. Provisions must be made for providing alternative or additional treatment in those with various ocular co-morbidities.