Screening cataract patients in a public hospital for a multifocal intraocular lens implantation

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To identify the rate and characteristics of cataract surgery candidates suitable for multifocal intraocular lens (MIOL) implantation among patients undergoing preoperative evaluation in a public hospital. Materials and Methods Screening was performed based on patient’s medical record, comprehensive ophthalmic examination, optical biometry (Zeiss, IOL Master 700) and Optical Coherence Tomography (Heidelberg, OCT Spectralis) in accordance with the relative indications and contraindications as mentioned in pertinent literature. Results The study evaluated 1200 consecutive patients. Four hundred and thirty -two patients (36%) were not eligible for bilateral surgery and were excluded from the study. Of 768 patients included in the present study 346 (45.1%) were considered suitable candidates. Four hundred twenty-two patients (54.9%) had reasons of exclusion in one or both eyes. Among them 121 (28.7%) were excluded because of retinal disease, 120 (28.4%) due to regular astigmatism (> 1.0 D of corneal astigmatism), 32 (7.5%) due to pseudoexfoliation or zonular instability, 30 (7.1%) because of glaucoma or ocular hypertension while in 90 (21.3%) patients there were multiple reasons of exclusion. Suitable candidates were significantly younger (70 and 75 years respectively (p < 0.001). After being informed about potential risks and benefits of MOIL implantation 212 of 346 (83.8%) eligible patients would consent for it. Conclusion Close to half of cataract patients in a public hospital are eligible for MOIL implantation and the majority would procced with the operation. The most prevalent contraindication is macular disease.