14 January 2019

Lens replacement led to 'blind patches', says artist

College comments on BBC’s article on lens replacement leading to 'blind patches’.

You may have seen the BBC’s article on lens replacement leading to 'blind patches’ (14 January 2019). The story focuses on the deterioration of an artist’s vision after lens replacement surgery to treat cataract. The current investigation focus on the legal implications for those experiencing "opacification" from a particular batch of lens implants made by a company called Oculentis.
 
Whilst the article mainly focuses on the legal aspects of this case, you may be interested in what the College of Optometrists has to say if you’re experiencing a reduction of vision due to surgery. 
 
Our Clinical Adviser, Daniel Hardiman-McCartney FCOptom, says; “if you experience a reduction in your vision at any point following cataract surgery you should arrange to see your optometrist. There are many possible causes of changes in vision following cataract surgery and optometrists are well placed to advise on the possible cause and recommend the best course of action, if needed.  If your vision is unaffected you do not need to take any further action”
 
You can find your nearest optometrist in our member directory on our Look After Your Eyes website
 
MRHA safety notice.

Related further reading

Kathryn Marshall MCOptom, an optometrist working in community practice in Scotland, describes the surgical complications that can lead to reduced visual outcomes.

Kathy Oxtoby introduces the first article in a series on an ageing population and the implications for eye health and the optometry profession in the UK.