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Changing trends in cataract surgery in Singapore
Singapore Medical Journal
|September 16, 1999
Summary
Cataract surgery in Singapore is increasing, especially among the elderly. The adoption of phacoemulsification, a modern surgical technique, has also significantly risen over the past five years.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Surgical Trends
Background:
- Cataract surgery is a common procedure to restore vision.
- Understanding surgical incidence and trends is crucial for healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the island-wide and Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC) incidence of cataract surgery.
- To evaluate the evolving surgical techniques for cataract removal in Singapore.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Medisave claims for cataract operations in Singapore (1985-1996).
- Retrospective analysis of SNEC cataract operations (1992-1996), focusing on demographics and techniques.
Main Results:
- Cataract operations in Singapore increased from 5,679 (1986) to 12,177 (1995).
- Incidence rose from 2.25/1,000 to 4.02/1,000 population; elderly (≥60 years) comprised 75% of cases.
- Phacoemulsification use at SNEC increased from 1% (1992) to 25% (1996).
Conclusions:
- Cataract surgery incidence is rising in Singapore, particularly in the elderly.
- A significant shift towards phacoemulsification indicates evolving surgical practices.
- Findings necessitate strategic planning for ophthalmic resources and manpower.