Impact of intraocular lens implantation in elderly patients who underwent cataract surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Cataract is an eye condition common in older people. It causes partial or total opacification of the lens and the decrease of visual acuity leading to difficulties in performing daily life activities, which in turn adversely affects their quality of life. Worldwide, the definitive treatment is surgery with removal of the cataractous lens and implantation of an intraocular lens. Objective: To assess the impact of intraocular lens implantation in patients who underwent cataract surgery using Blumenthal’s Mini Nuc technique at the Arnaldo Milian Castro Provincial University Hospital in Villa Clara. Methods: Prospective descriptive study based on an intervention design (before-after). The sample consisted of 75 patients who had a refractive examination, medical history, medical interview and survey. The variables studied were the visual acuity with the best correction before and after the operation, and functionality before and after surgery. Results: prior to surgery, most of the patients had a not so good vision. It could be noticed an improvement in the postoperative period, with a predominance of patients with normal visual acuity. When analyzing functionality, before surgery, a high percentage had big problems for carrying out those activities. This situation is reversed after surgery because most of them do not have problems in their daily activities. Conclusions: It was found a positive impact of intraocular lens implant surgery in old age adults and their visual acuity and functionality improved.