Impact of comprehensive eye examination in identifying the ocular co-morbidities in patients screened for cataract surgery through the out-reach activities

PURPOSE: To evaluate the impact of comprehensive eye examination in identifying the ocular co-morbidities in patients presenting for cataract surgery through the community screening program. METHODS: This was a hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study in a tertiary eye care institute. Comprehensive eye examination was performed for all patients screened for cataract surgery through the out-reach activities. Patients suspected to have any ocular co-morbidity were revaluated by sub-specialty trained ophthalmologists, and further management was planned. The demographic details of patients, sub-specialty consultation, final diagnosis, and type of the treatment received by these patients were recorded. RESULTS: During the study period, 4022 patients were referred to the base hospital for cataract surgery, of whom 922 (22.9%) needed a specialist opinion. Glaucoma (238) and retinal disorders (232) constituted half (51%) of these referrals. There were 313 (33.9%) patients having co-morbidities because of corneal, oculoplastic, and neuro-ophthalmic conditions. After specialist review, 397 (43.1%) patients underwent only cataract surgery, 55 patients (5.9%) underwent combined surgeries, and 168 (18.2%) patients underwent other procedures. Cataract surgery was not performed in 470 (50.9%) patients, of which 302 were prescribed glasses or managed medically. CONCLUSION: All patients screened for cataract surgery through out-reach programs require a comprehensive eye examination to identify ocular diseases other than cataract. Provisions must be made for providing alternative or additional treatment in those with various ocular co-morbidities.