Visual Function Assessment in Patients of Cataract in Rural Population of Kutch

Introduction: The measurement of Visual Acuity (VA) is an inadequate measure of visual impairment. Patient’s Visual Function (VF) which is a measurement of important visuo-dependant tasks that he/she can do, is a more accurate measure for the need of cataract surgery than VA alone. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the actual functional impairment faced by patients of cataract and their satisfaction with surgical outcome in rural population of Kutch district. Aims and Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the impact of cataract in daily activities in patients of rural areas, compare their VA and VF; pre and post cataract surgery and assess patient satisfaction with surgical outcome. Methodology: A batch of 100 patients diagnosed with having uni/bilateral cataract visiting the OPD at District Hospital Bhuj, was surveyed pre-operatively and 1 month after undergoing surgery. VA was taken by Snellen’s Chart and recorded at both times. For VF assessment, pre and post-operative quality of vision was judged using the IND-VFQ 33. The response of the patients was calibrated by giving a score of 1 to 5 and graded (from excellent to poor vision). Expectations and satisfaction of the patients were graded likewise. Results: Conclusion: Huge improvement was observed in VA and VF scales of patients undergoing Cataract surgery. VF scale takes into consideration the patients’ perspective of vision reduction and improvement. Socio-demographic data with parameters can be useful for better Geriatric Eye care facilities. The amount of vision loss that forces the population to seek medical attention can be assessed so as to increase awareness regarding cataract, since it is a major cause of preventable blindness. Further ill health effects like falls, as highly observed in senile patients due to untreated cataract, income loss, reduction in mental faculties, and increased burden of their dependence can be detected in unemployed and senile population.