Cataract success rate higher than the UK’s

The local figures beat the UK figures, according to the latest 2024 National Cataract Audit report.

The Medical Specialist Group submits its cataract surgery data into the Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ annual audit.

The latest report covers the year ending March 2023, looking at the rate of posterior capsule rupture and avoidance of sight loss.

Posterior capsule rupture occurs when there is an unintended break or tear in the back portion of the lens capsule during cataract surgery and is the most important risk factor for serious postoperative complications.

In Guernsey 99.2% of operations were completed without this complication, compared with a UK average of 98.9%.

On the avoidance of sight loss measure, 100% of operations were completed in Guernsey without deterioration of vision against a UK average of 99.1%. The patient’s vision is measured at a post-surgery follow up with the MSG or their optometrist, using a sight test reading chart.

MSG chairman Steve Evans said while Guernsey handled a relatively small number of operations, the results were good news.

‘Our results are based on 511 operations, which is a small number relative to the 481,530 operations included in the audit, and if just one or two operations do not go to plan it can make a big difference to our percentages,’ he said.

‘We’re delighted that the National Cataract Audit has confirmed that our outcomes for patients in Guernsey are within the expected limit.’

He said MSG’s ophthalmologists get a lot of positive feedback from patients about how much their sight improves after the operation.

‘But it’s also important that we review and reflect on how our results compare with those achieved in treatment centres around the UK and constantly look for ways in which we can improve.’

The MSG briefly paused cataract surgery from March to July 2024, due to unexpected staffing shortages.

It is now getting back to performing around 85 operations a month.