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Post-Operative Complications After Cataract Surgery in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and/or Sjögren's Syndrome.
Sepehr Sadeghi1,2, Tzu-Ying Yu2, David Choi1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
Clinical Ophthalmology (Auckland, N.Z.)
|October 28, 2025
Summary
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS) face higher risks of cataract surgery complications. Preoperative assessment and monitoring are crucial for managing these risks in patients with dry eye disease.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and Sjögren's syndrome (SS) are chronic autoimmune conditions.
- These conditions can affect ocular tissues, increasing risks for eye surgery.
- Cataract surgery is common, but patient-specific risks require careful evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and nature of complications after cataract surgery in patients with RA and/or SS.
- To identify specific risks associated with these autoimmune conditions in the context of ophthalmic surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing cataract surgery between 2006 and 2018.
- Inclusion criteria: patients diagnosed with RA and/or SS.
- Data collection focused on preoperative conditions and postoperative outcomes.
Main Results:
- 100 eyes from 75 patients (mean age 73.1 years) were analyzed.
- Complications included reduced visual acuity (4%), cystoid macular edema (6%), and prolonged inflammation (3%).
- Severe complications occurred in patients with SS, including corneal melt and endophthalmitis.
Conclusions:
- Patients with RA, especially those with SS and dry eye, have an elevated risk of postoperative complications.
- Thorough preoperative screening for ocular surface disease is essential.
- Close postoperative monitoring is recommended for this patient group to mitigate risks.
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