Management of cataract in the Thai population

To analyze the types of cataracts, surgical procedures, hospital charges and length of stays among the Thai population.

Information on cataracts among out- and in-patients in the fiscal year 2010 was retrieved from the databases of the three main national health insurance schemes. The data were analyzed according to the types of cataract, surgical procedures, hospital charges and length of stays.

There were 654,352 out-patient visits and 146,994 in-patient admissions in the fiscal year 2010. The number of cataract patients was greatest among 61-80 year-olds. Senile cataract was the most frequent type of cataract (97.11%) followed by traumatic (0.59%), infantile, juvenile and pre-senile (0.45%), complicated (0.15%) and drug-induced (0.02%). Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation was the most common surgical procedure used to restore vision among the elderly (83.07%). The average health expenditure for cataract was 18,527 baht and length of hospital stay 2.35 days.

Cataracts and their management in the Thai population were analyzed. For health economic reasons, all cataract surgeries should be on an out-patient basis unless otherwise approved. Prospective studies should be designed to assess the relevant data on specific cataracts and the associated risk factors.