Assessment of Visual Function Outcomes and Vision Related Quality of Life following Cataract Surgery in Patients Visiting a Tertiary Hospital in Andhra Pradesh

The aim of this study was to assess the improvement in Visual Acuity (VA), Visual Functions (VF) and Vision Related Quality Of Life (VRQOL) after cataract surgery at a tertiary hospital.

In this hospital based prospective, observational study, a total of 60 patients, who were scheduled to undergo cataract surgery at this centre were included. Pre operative VA (recorded using Illuminated Snellen's or Illiterate E Chart) and VFQ 25 Score (with NEI VFQ 25 Questionnaire) was obtained. Extra Capsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE) and Posterior Chamber Intra Ocular Lens (PCIOL) implantation by Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) was performed on these patients.

Out of the 60 patients, 51 (mean age 60.9 years, 68.6% female) attended follow up visits till 6 weeks. These patients were re-evaluated and the postoperative parameters of VA, VFQ 25 Score were obtained.

We conclude that visual acuity testing alone is not a reliable measure of success of cataract surgeries and assessment of visual functions, vision related quality of life by a suitable and valid questionnaire provides beer analysis of patient perceived outcomes and thus helps in the improvement of interventions for visual rehabilitation.