[Repercussions of cataract surgery on the development of diabetic retinopathy]

A progression of diabetic retinopathy has been noted following cataract surgery. Both of the cataract procedures are discussed: ECCE-PC IOL and ICCE-AC IOL. The diabetic patients without background retinopathy have a good prognosis for cataract extraction, approaching that of non diabetics. However for patients with preexisting background retinopathy or proliferative retinopathy, cataract surgery causes progression of the retinopathy with an associated loss of vision. Diabetic retinopathy should no longer be regarded as a contraindication to intraocular posterior-chamber lens insertion.