Manual small-incision cataract surgery and glaucoma - A dilemma of the duo

Both cataract and glaucoma significantly affect the quality of life of an individual and they are often found to coexist, either primarily or secondary to one another. Clear-cut guidelines are not available for this subgroup of coexistent morbidities. Through this article, we attempt to discuss the risks and benefits of staged and combined surgery, their short- and long-term effects on the intraocular pressure and pre and postoperative management. The indication and type of surgery will depend on the type, severity and control of glaucoma, and the clinical significance of cataract; and the surgical outcome on the surgical technique used, site of surgery, use of anti-fibrotic agents, and most importantly, the surgeon's skill and experience.