Visual results and social rehabilitation after cataract surgery. A retrospective comparison of the effect of non-IOL and IOL surgery.

This report examines the changes that occurred in the post-operative visual and social function of patients with cataract when the hospital responsible for cataract treatment (roughly 1000 cataract extractions per year) shifted from non-IOL to IOL techniques. Visual function and vision-dependent social performance were compared retrospectively in 116 patients, 53 of whom had undergone cataract extraction without IOL implantation, and 63 of whom had been treated by IOL implantation. Patients with no IOL had the possibility of using extended-wear contact lenses if unable to tolerate aphakic spectacles. Visual results and social rehabilitation were good with both techniques, and there was no significant difference in vision-dependent social performance between the groups. The quality of vision and patient satisfaction with surgery were better in IOL patients. It appears that, once vision is restored by surgery and contact lenses are available, post-operative function in patients is determined by factors other than the type of cataract surgery. However, the shift to IOL surgery brings about improved quality of vision and patient satisfaction.