[Cataract in persons over 90 years old]

To evaluate effect of age over 90-ty on cataract surgery course, perioperative period and final corrected visual acuity.

A case series of 34 patients aged over 90 years (39 eyes) undergoing cataract extraction between 1993 - 2000 was studied. Detailed ophthalmological examination (best corrected visual acuity, tonometry, retinometry, anterior and posterior segment exmination, ultrasonography scan A and B), before and after operations was performed. Analyzed data was widen by internal physical examination.

ECCE with posterior intraocular lens (IOL) in 38 eyes, and anterior IOL in 1 case (intraopertive posterior lens capsule rupture) implantation was performed. Postoperative course without complications in 35 eyes (89,7%), complications in 4 eyes (10,3%): keratopathy (2), exudative membrane (2). Improvement in visual acuity (defined as at least 2 lines in Snellen tables) was noted in 35 eyes (89,7%). Visual acuity over 0,3 was achieved in 23 eyes (58,9%), over 0,5 in 20 eyes (51,3%). Ocular comorbids: age related macular degeneration 7 eyes (17,9%), glaucomatous atrophy of optic nerve 5 eyes (12,8%), no diabetic retinopathy was diagnosed.

1. Advance in years is not a contradiction for cataract extraction. 2. Cataract surgery improved visual acuity: to far in 89,7%, to near in 71,8% - comparing with preopertive status. 3. Restoration of visual function, especially in persons with severe visual acuity reduction, has good impact on psychological status of patients. 4. Accurate perioperative care protects patients from serious systemic complications.