Preoperative testing for cataract surgery.

A survey was carried out to examine variation in preoperative testing of healthy patients scheduled to undergo cataract surgery in Canada. The results showed significant variations in which investigations are mandatory and in how close to the time of surgery the tests had to be done. A literature review questioning the value of routine preoperative testing is presented. Eliminating low-yield pre-operative screening tests is a safe way to reduce expenditures on cataract surgery without compromising patient care.