Survey of Cataract Surgical Techniques in Nigeria

Abstract

Objective: To determine the techniques of cataract surgery as currently being practiced by ophthalmologists in Nigeria. Materials and Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was administered to practising ophthalmologists in Nigeria, selected by simple random sampling. Information sought included the type of cataract surgery performed and how often performed; the type of IOL (if any) used; mode of after-surgery care; and availability of biometry and YAG laser facilities. Results: Of the 90 ophthalmologists selected, 84 returned the questionnaire, giving 93.3% response rate. All the ophthalmologists perform cataract surgery. The more frequently employed techniques were the ECCE/IOL (73.8%) and SICS/IOL (29.8%); 2.4% occasionally perform phacoemulsification, while 26.2% occasionally perform intracapsular cataract extraction without intraocular lens implant. Ambulatory (day case) surgery was practiced by 20.2%. The PMMA lenses were most commonly used IOL (94.1%). Only 47.6% of the ophthalmologists have access to ocular biometry and YAG laser was available only to 10.7%. Conclusions: This survey suggests that the most popular cataract surgery technique in Nigeria at present is the wide incision ECCE/IOL and facilities for biometry and Nd:YAG laser are not commonly available. It is recommended that ophthalmologists in Nigeria upgrade both surgical techniques and instrumentation for better post-operative visual outcome for cataract patients.

Key words: cataract, surgical techniques, Nigeria