ESCRS 2025: Cataract Surgery Complications / Management / Prevention

Incidence and Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy after Cataract Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Presenter: Cheng-Jen Chiu

A systematic review and meta-analysis of 15 studies involving over 7,000 diabetic patients assessed diabetic retinopathy (DR) incidence and progression following cataract surgery across diverse populations in North America, Europe, and Asia. Results showed a significantly increased incidence of postoperative DR compared to controls. 

However, in paired analyses, no significant difference in DR progression was found post-surgery. These findings underscore the importance of vigilant monitoring for DR development in diabetic patients after cataract surgery to optimize management and prevent complications. Clinicians should implement careful follow-up strategies in this high-risk group.

Prevention is Better than Cure: Vitamin D as the Useful Tip to Reduce the Symptoms of Dry Eye after Phacoemulsification

Presenter: Larysa Tutchenko

A study at Kyiv City Clinical Ophthalmological Hospital, Ukraine, evaluated orally ingested vitamin D (1000 IU daily before and for 2 months after surgery) in 50 cataract patients (25 per group) to assess its effect on ocular surface quality and comfort post-phacoemulsification. Using a composite score combining ocular surface staining (Oxford scale) and self-assessed comfort, the vitamin D group showed significant improvement at 1-month post-op compared to controls (p<0.05). 

A decrease in the composite score indicated better comfort and reduced staining, whereas controls experienced less improvement or worsening. Vitamin D supplementation may enhance patient comfort and ocular surface health after cataract surgery, potentially increasing satisfaction alongside standard postoperative care.

European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) Congress 2025, September 12-16, Denmark