The use of anti-VEGF medications, which have become vital in preserving sight since their approval in 2006, has surged dramatically among patients suffering from conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease. However, many of these individuals will eventually face the development of cataracts—a common issue as people age. Recent research has raised concerns about whether a history of multiple eye injections complicates subsequent cataract surgery.
In a groundbreaking study set to be presented at the upcoming AAO 2024, the 128th annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, Canadian researchers analyzed data sourced from a universal healthcare system to assess potential complications following cataract surgery in patients treated with intravitreal injections. The study is the largest of its kind to date.
Utilizing billing and diagnostic information from the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, the researchers identified 10 significant complications linked to cataract surgery. They specifically evaluated the associations between these complications and patients who had previously received anti-VEGF eye injections. The majority of subjects in this group were treated with these medications.
The analysis focused on 163,663 patients with retinal conditions who underwent cataract surgery between 2009 and 2018. Among these, 3,243 patients had received anti-VEGF injections prior to their cataract procedures.
The findings revealed that patients with a history of anti-VEGF treatment faced increased risks for several complications compared to those who had never received such treatments. The complications identified included:
- Non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 3.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.57–4.43)
- Retained lens fragments (aHR 2.00, 95% CI 1.02–3.91)
- Retinal detachment (aHR 3.63, 95% CI 2.47–5.35)
- Retinal tear (aHR 3.24, 95% CI 2.36–4.45)
- Intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation (aHR 1.97, 95% CI 1.31–2.97)
- Anterior vitrectomy (aHR 1.67, 95% CI 1.17–2.38)
- Glaucoma surgery (aHR 4.03, 95% CI 2.86–5.70)
However, the researchers did not find any increased risk for corneal transplants, IOL exchanges, or IOL repositioning among patients with a history of anti-VEGF treatment.
Lead researcher Winnie Yu from the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, “The findings of this study highlight the importance of preoperative and intraoperative surgical planning in the prevention and management of these possible complications in patients receiving cataract surgery. Patients with prior intravitreal injection history should be counselled on the potential risks of cataract surgery to ensure appropriate informed surgical decision-making.”
About the American Academy of Ophthalmology
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons, representing a global community of 32,000 medical doctors dedicated to protecting sight and enhancing lives. The organization sets standards for ophthalmic education, advocates for patients, and supports research aimed at advancing the profession and ensuring high-quality eye care.
Related topic:
How Long Does Eye Swelling Last After Cataract Surgery?
What Are the dIsadvantages of laser cataract surgery?
5 Effective Home Remedies for Under Eye Twitching
