Visual acuity following cataract surgery in monocular patients referred to Matini hospital in Kashan, 2006-2011

This study was carried out to determine the visual acuity and complications following cataract surgery in a consecutive case series of functionally (<20.200) versus completely (no light perception) monocular patients. This prospective study was performed on all monocular patients with cataract and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of less than 20/200. Snellian visual acuity, preoperative and 3 months postoperative visual acuity, intraoperative complications and cause of decreased vision in the fellow eye were recorded. All patients were followed up at least 3 months after the surgery. Mean age of patients was 52±13 years. Fifty-eight percent of the patients were female. The most common cause for decreased vision in group I were diabetic retinopathy (32.4%) and trauma (31%), but in group II were diabetic retinopathy (41.7%), age-related macular degeneration (18.6%) and trauma (14.2%). Visual acuity three months after operation was ≥20/40 in 58% and 42% of the operated eyes in groups I and II, respectively. Results showed no significant difference in visual acuity between the two groups after three months. Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation is safe in monocular patients and can improve visual acuity.