Is cataract surgery a risk factor for progression of macular degeneration?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There is a suggestion of increased risk or progression of age-related macular degeneration after cataract surgery, which is related to the increased exposure of the retina to short-wavelength light.

RECENT FINDINGS

Cell culture and animal work has described retinal and retinal pigment epithelium phototoxicity on acute light exposure. Clinical studies suggest that the use of short-wavelength-blocking intraocular lenses can help but may also affect visual function and circadian rhythm.

SUMMARY

Evidence to date fails to prove conclusively that light alone or cataract surgery can induce or cause the progression of age-related macular degeneration. A randomized clinical study of the use of short-wavelength (blue)-blocking lenses to prove or disprove the ability of these intraocular lenses to help in preventing progression of age-related macular degeneration is needed.