Abstract
Purpose: :
Comparatively little information is available regarding cataract surgical outcomes in the developing world. We examined visual acuity (VA), visual function (VF) and quality of life (QOL) after cataract surgery in Vietnam.
Methods: :
Persons undergoing cataract surgery in Ha Tinh, Vietnam between January and December 2003 underwent post–operative measurement of presenting VA in the operative eye, VF and QOL. Demographic information and potential surgical indicators, including presence of complications, were recorded. Examinations were conducted a minimum of three months after surgery.
Results: :
Among 412 subjects (mean age 73.9 +/–10.0 years, 67% female), 44% had VA >= 20/60 and 20% < 20/200. IOLs were inserted in 377 (91.5%) of cases. Only 37% of patients had any follow–up visits. Among those without follow up, 72.4% did not feel the need, or were not instructed to follow up. VA, VF (68.7 ± 23.8) and QOL (73.8 ± 21.6) were worse than those reported at Aravind Eye Hospital, India (1.1% presenting VA < 20/200; VF = 79.8 ± 20; QOL: 88.5 ± 20). VA, VF and QOL in Vietnam were better than those reported for Shunyi County, China (44.8% presenting VA < 20/200; VF = 61.9 ± 30.0; QOL = 71.0 ± 31.8), and Doumen County, China (52.6% presenting VA < 20/200; VF = 41.56 ± 20.0; QOL = 54.5 ± 29.3. In the current study, predictors of poor VA, VF and/or QOL included older age, female gender and operative complications.
Conclusions: :
Cataract surgery in Vietnam results in good vision for many patients, however, when compared to centers of excellence such as Aravind, there are opportunities for improvement. Reduction in operative complications and enhanced follow–up may improve vision outcomes.
Keywords: clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: outcomes/complications • cataract