Cataract surgery in Zimbabwe: the way forward

The adoption of extracapsular cataract extraction and implant surgery as the standard method of managing senile cataracts in Zimbabwe has been hindered by several factors. These are; succumbing to pressure from promoters of intracapsular cataract surgery, inadequate human and material resources and the problems related to implementation. The problems with intracapsular cataract surgery and aphakic correction are well known. Practical methods of reducing the cost of extracapsular cataract extraction and implant surgery have been suggested. Considering the infrastructure and expertise currently available, coupled with the adoption of some of the cost cutting measures suggested, Zimbabwean ophthalmologists have the potential of providing high quality cataract surgery by international standards to the public without reservations.