Management of cataract in dry eye disease: Preferred practice pattern guidelines

Abstract

Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed ophthalmic surgeries in the world. Dry eye disease (DED) is found to coexist in most patients with cataracts due to the overlapping age groups of both these conditions. Preoperative evaluation for DED is important to improve outcomes. A pre-existing DED affecting the tear film is likely to affect biometry. Moreover, special intraoperative considerations are needed in eyes with DED to reduce complications and improve postoperative outcomes. Dry eye disease (DED) is known to occur following an uneventful cataract surgery or a pre-existing DED is likely to worsen following cataract surgery as well. In these situations, despite a good visual outcome, patient dissatisfaction is common owing to the distressing DED symptoms. This review aims to summarize the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative considerations when performing cataract surgery in the presence of a coexisting DED.

Post-refractive Surgery Dry Eye: A Systematic Review Exploring Pathophysiology, Risk Factors, and Novel Management Strategies

“…Artificial tear supplements provide transient lubrication and protect the ocular surface from desiccation [ 34 ]. Preservative-free lubricants are preferred to limit toxicity from prolonged use after refractive procedures [ 35 ]. Lid hygiene and warm compresses help restore meibomian gland function altered by corneal denervation [ 36 ].…”

Seeing through tears: Understanding and managing dry eye disease

“…The contrary is also true, patients with the disease may have non-specific complaints and we should not miss it, especially preoperatively as it can lead to dissatisfied patients despite impeccable cataract or refractive surgery. [ 4 ] The second dry eye workshop of the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS DEWS II) has conducted an exhaustive exercise in defining the disease and collating the evidence on epidemiology and causes, and recommendations for diagnosis and treatment. [ 5 ] Although there are a multitude of diagnostic platforms available, most experts will agree that the diagnosis remains anchored to simple clinical tests such as fluorescein staining, Schirmer’s test, tear break-up time, and clinical evaluation of the meibomian and lacrimal glands.…”