Postoperative cataract surgery complications: cystoid macular oedema and epiretinal membrane
8 February 2023
Winter 2023
Kathryn Marshall MCOptom, an optometrist working in community practice in Scotland, describes the surgical complications that can lead to reduced visual outcomes.
History
In July 2021, a 70-year-old female patient attended a routine eye examination, reporting a gradual decrease in vision both for distance and near in both eyes. She was a driver and a non-smoker and otherwise asymptomatic.
- General health: high blood pressure (well controlled), osteoporosis, breast cancer. No known allergies.
- Ocular history: no previous hospital eye service (HES) visits.
- Meds: statin (name unknown), amlodipine, letrozole and risedronic acid.
- Family history: nil relevant issues.
- Refraction and best corrected visual acuity (VA):
- Right eye (RE) +3.00/-0.50×90, 6/12, Add +2.75, N4.5 at 30cm.
- Left eye (LE) +2.75/-1.00×50, 6/12, Add +2.75, N.6 at 30cm.
- Pinhole testing showed no improvement in VA in either eye.
Not already a member of the College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
Related further reading
Make your eye health a priority in 2026 – top tips for good eye health.
The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists say new research shows “current vision checks aren’t keeping pace with what’s needed to keep everyone safe on the road”
Find out what the College has been doing to influence government eye care policy across the UK.