A prospective case-controlled study on the outcome of cataract surgery in diabetic and non-diabetic patients

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) significantly influences cataract development and may adversely affect visual outcomes and postoperative recovery. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the outcomes of small incision cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Methods: A prospective case-controlled study was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College, Chittorgarh, Rajasthan, involving diabetics and non-diabetics patients). Patients were evaluated for preoperative visual acuity, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and visual outcomes at 4 weeks post-surgery. Statistical comparisons between the groups were performed using chi-square and t-tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results: The mean age was 51.39 years in the diabetic group and 52.88 years in the non-diabetic group. Preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was poorer among diabetics (logMAR 1.72 ± 0.48) than non-diabetics (1.51 ± 0.51), though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Postoperative complications were significantly higher in diabetics (72%) compared to non-diabetics (36%) (p = 0.001), with corneal oedema, anterior chamber reaction, and posterior capsular opacification more prevalent in the diabetic cohort. Despite this, visual improvement was substantial in both groups, and no complication led to permanent vision loss.

Conclusion: Cataract surgery in diabetic patients, even with a higher rate of postoperative complications, yields comparable visual outcomes to non-diabetics when diabetic retinopathy is absent. Complications are generally self-limiting and manageable with conservative treatment. Enhanced perioperative care and monitoring in diabetic individuals are recommended to optimize outcomes.