Co-management of cataract postoperative care

Cataract extraction is a common ophthalmic surgical procedure. Many, if not most, patients will require it at some point in their lives. Cataract postoperative care is now routinely co-managed by many optometrists and ophthalmic surgeons. Postoperative management of the cataract patient in the optometrist's office is beneficial to the patient, and allows involved providers to practice to the full extent of their training and expertise. This paper sets forth a clinical perspective on co-management of cataract postoperative care. Included are suggested protocols for examination intervals and examination components, as well as expected clinical findings and potential complications.