Transactions from the Xth International Orthoptics Congress 2004

A retrospective study was carried out of all patients attending for cataract surgery at the
Sussex Eye Hospital from January 2003 until the end of December 2003. The case notes were
reviewed to ascertain whether there was any documented ocular motility disorder or diplopia
pre-operatively, and also whether surgery had been cancelled for any of these reasons. It was
then noted whether the patients had any binocular complaints at two weeks post-op and
persisted at six weeks post-op. The aetiology of the disruption of binocular vision was
ascertained where possible and any treatment recorded.
The type of cataract surgery carried out was noted and whether it was carried out
under local or general anaesthetic. Any complications at the time of surgery were also noted.
Results
A total of 2147 cataract operations were carried out in the period from January to December
2003. The procedure was carried out under local anaesthetic in 93% of cases.
Pre-operatively ? cases had been noted to have a pre-existing condition which may
give rise to binocular complications but in no case was surgery cancelled.
Discussion
Orthoptists should be seen to take a pro-active role to ensure that the binocular complications
that are experienced by patients are minimised, and excluded where avoidable.
Acknowledgements
The Consultant Ophthalmologists of the Sussex Eye Hospital for allowing me to report on
their patients.
References