A Prospective Comparative Study of Postoperative Complications and Visual Outcomes of Cataract Surgery in Uveitic Versus Non-Uveitic Eyes

Abstract

Background: Cataract is a leading cause of visual impairment, and uveitis is an important secondary cause of complicated cataract, particularly
in younger individuals. Cataract surgery in uveitic eyes poses significant challenges due to pre-existing inflammation and increased risk of
postoperative complications. Comparative evaluation with non-uveitic cataracts is essential to understand surgical outcomes and optimize
management strategies in tertiary care settings.
Aim: To compare postoperative complications and visual outcomes of cataract surgery in uveitic versus non-uveitic eyes in a Tertiary Care
Center in Gaya, Bihar.
Methodology: This prospective comparative observational study included 120 patients (120 eyes) undergoing cataract surgery over 12
months, divided into uveitic (n=60) and non-uveitic (n=60) groups. All patients underwent standard preoperative evaluation and cataract
extraction by phacoemulsification or SICS with intraocular lens implantation. Patients were followed up for 3 months. Outcome measures
included postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraoperative complications, and postoperative complications. Statistical analysis
was performed using SPSS version 25, with p<0.05 considered significant.
Results: Uveitic patients were significantly younger and had poorer preoperative visual acuity. Intraoperative difficulties, such as small pupil and
posterior synechiae, were significantly more common in uveitic eyes. Postoperative complications, including anterior chamber reaction, cystoid
macular edema, and posterior capsular opacification, were significantly higher in the uveitic group. Although both groups showed significant
improvement in BCVA, final visual outcomes were significantly better in non-uveitic eyes (p <0.001).
Conclusion: Cataract surgery in uveitic eyes provides significant visual rehabilitation but is associated with higher complication rates and
comparatively poorer outcomes than non-uveitic eyes. Careful perioperative inflammation control and vigilant follow-up are essential for
optimal visual outcomes.