Search

AIMS—To determine whether there were any specific factors that influenced waiting list time (WLT) for patients undergoing cataract surgery. METHODS—70 preoperative cataract patients were interviewed by one of the authors using a questionnaire to score visual acuity, coexisting ocular pathology and disabilities, threat to independent living/employment, and perceived visual handicap for detailed, gross, and driving vision. Individuals were analysed separately according to whether it was their first or second cataract operation. RESULTS—The median WLT for first eye surgery was 9 months (n = 31) and 13 months for second eye surgery (n = 36). The WLT ranged from 2 to 25 months for first eyes and 0.25-18 months for second eyes. Where there was a perceived threat to independent living or employment the WLT was found to be significantly shorter than the median. A high overall score correlated with a shorter WLT. Surgical priority was also given to individuals with anisometropia >3 dioptres. CONCLUSION—This study has demonstrated that there are specific factors that influence clinicians when prioritising patients for cataract surgery.

We have found similar evidence of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (SAS) tested by overnight pulse oximetry in a cohort of 17 consecutive patients presenting to the eye clinic with non-arteritic ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION).1 Patients answered an abbreviated questionnaire of SAS and were sent for sleep studies if they had symptoms. They were tested by the sleep clinic with overnight oximetry and answered the Epworth sleepiness scale. Of the patients 64.7% were diagnosed with SAS, 55% were men, and the mean …