Articles about Eye Health and Disease 2001
 

Cataract Surgery in Found to Benefit Even Those in their Mid-80's.

(From Monestam E. Ophthalmology Times 12/1/2001.)

A study by a Swedish cataract surgeon, Eva Monestam MD, found significant functional benefits following cataract surgery done on patients over 85 years of age. Using questionnaires, the investigators evaluated patient self-assessed visual ability regarding reading, TV viewing, orientation ability, activities of daily living, and visual acuity before and 3 months after cataract surgery. 114 individuals were evaluated over a 1 year period within a geographically defined area.

• 76% of patients experienced an improvement in reading ability.

• More than 50% of patients unable to read the newspaper prior to surgery were able to afterwards.

• Ability to watch TV improved after surgery, with 79% having difficulty prior to surgery, compared to 27% after surgery.

• Prior to surgery 89% of those over 85 had difficulty with their global visual function. This was reduced to 23% after surgery.

• 72% of the 85 to 90 year olds, and 50% of the over 90 year olds were still alive 2.5 years after surgery.

The author felt that the fact that many individuals over age 80 and 90 may have several years further reinforced the impact that cataract surgery could have on their quality of life.

 

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