A Comparative Study of Outcome of Visual Acuity of Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery in Diabetics and Non-Diabetics

Abstract

Background: Cataract is the leading cause of reversible blindness worldwide, with a higher prevalence in patients with diabetes mellitus. Diabetes accelerates cataract formation and may influence postoperative visual recovery and complication rates. Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) is widely used in resource-limited settings due to its cost-effectiveness and good visual outcomes.

Objective: To compare postoperative visual acuity outcomes following manual small incision cataract surgery in diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Methodology: A comparative observational study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 80 patients undergoing MSICS were included, with 40 diabetic and 40 non-diabetic patients. Preoperative assessment and standard surgical procedures were performed. Postoperative visual acuity and complications were assessed at multiple follow-up intervals. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square and t-tests to compare outcomes between groups.

Results: A total of 80 patients were included, equally distributed between diabetic (50%) and non-diabetic (50%) groups. The mean age was comparable between diabetic (62.83 ± 8.38 years) and non-diabetic patients (61.78 ± 9.18 years) (p = 0.594).Significant improvement in visual acuity was observed in both groups following surgery. However, postoperative complications were more common in diabetic patients. Corneal edema was observed in 78.6% of diabetic patients compared to 21.4% of non-diabetics. Iritis occurred in 62.5% of diabetics versus 37.5% of non-diabetics, while pigment deposits on intraocular lens were noted in 66.7% of diabetics compared to 33.3% of non-diabetics.

Conclusion: Manual small incision cataract surgery provides effective visual improvement in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Although diabetic patients have a higher incidence of postoperative complications and slower recovery, satisfactory final visual outcomes can be achieved with proper perioperative care and monitoring.