Managing cystoid macular edema after cataract surgery

Cystoid macular edema (CME) is a common problem after cataract extraction. It can occur after uncomplicated surgery in patients with otherwise healthy eyes, after complicated surgery, or after surgery in patients with ocular diseases such as uveitis or diabetic retinopathy. Usually vision loss from cystoid macular edema is temporary and responds to treatment with topical anti-inflammatory medications. However, some cases respond poorly to conservative treatment and may develop permanent visual loss. A review of the medical literature was performed for all articles published in English between August 1, 2001 and July 31, 2002 on the topic of cystoid macular edema after cataract surgery. The authors selected nine articles that were most relevant to the practicing ophthalmologist for inclusion in this review. Topics of interest included vitreous loss, retained lens fragments, diabetes, uveitis, retinitis pigmentosa, ocular hypotensive lipids, internal limiting membrane peeling, and intravitreal triamcinolone injection.