Same-day sequential cataract surgery

Abstract

SBCS will likely become rapidly more common around the world during the coming decade, to the great benefit of patients, institutions, and funding agencies.

Evidence-based guidelines for cataract surgery: Guidelines based on data in the European Registry of Quality Outcomes for Cataract and Refractive Surgery database

“…4 Same-day bilateral cataract surgery is recommended in selected cases according to some publications. 5 The benefits should be less cost and faster rehabilitation of the patient. 6,7 The risk with this approach is bilateral complications that could be avoided if the surgical strategy had been one eye at a time.…”

Simultaneous bilateral intraocular surgery in children

“…1 This growth is reflected in the American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern statements over the years. The 1996 statement did not mention simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery in adults; the 2001 statement mostly cautioned against it.…”

‘Bilateral same-day cataract surgery should routinely be offered to patients’ – No

“…5 With appropriate case selection 6 and precautions against endophthalmitis and refractive surprise, ISCS can result in excellent outcomes and high levels of patient satisfaction. 1,7,8 Despite growing interest, in most countries ISCS remains the exception rather than the rule, and it is our view that it should remain this way and that bilateral cataract surgery should not be routinely offered to patients. The arguments in favour of same-day bilateral surgery are primarily related to convenience and economy, 9 but these benefits are outweighed in most circumstances by the small but devastating risk of bilateral blindness due to a complication of surgery.…”

“…1,2 There have been a growing number of peer-reviewed publications addressing the issue, an International Society of Bilateral Cataract Surgeons established, and guidance regarding this included in the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Cataract Surgery Guidelines. 1,3,4 Interest in ISCS has been fuelled by improvements in surgical outcomes and studies demonstrating the economic benefits of operating on both eyes on the same day. 5 With appropriate case selection 6 and precautions against endophthalmitis and refractive surprise, ISCS can result in excellent outcomes and high levels of patient satisfaction.…”