Investigation of the Cause of Low Vision after Cataract Extraction and Intraocular Lens Implantation

Objective: To explore the major cause and management of low vision after cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation. Methods: 487 eyes of cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation from January 2000 to May 2004 were analyzed retrospectively, which were divided into 5 groups: 188eyes of traumatic cataract,89 eyes of cataract and glaucoma,122 eyes of cataract and diabetes mellitus,27 eyes of cataract and uveitis, 61eyes of cataract and high myopia.100eyes of single age- related cataract were selected as controls. After 3 months of operation, major complications and the incidence rate of low vision were analyzed. Results: The visual acuity that was 0.3 after 3 months of operation were 26.07%, 29.21%, 25.41%, 30.04%, 18.51%and 8% in 6 groups respectively. There was significant difference between the 5 study groups and the control group (P 0.01). Conclusion:The eye disease before operation and the systematic disease involving the eye were major factors of low vision. Enough preparation before operation, Skillful surgical technique and proper management after operation operation may decrease the occurrence of low vision.