Aims-To determine whether there were any specific factors that influenced w
aiting list time (WLT) for patients undergoing cataract surgery.
Methods-70 preoperative cataract patients were interviewed by one of the au
thors using a questionnaire to score visual acuity, coexisting ocular patho
logy and disabilities, threat to independent living/employment, and perceiv
ed visual handicap for detailed, gross, and driving vision. Individuals wer
e analysed separately according to whether it was their first or second cat
aract operation.
Results-The median WLT for first eye surgery was 9 months (n = 31) and 13 m
onths for second eye surgery (n = 36). The WLT ranged from 2 to 25 months f
or first eyes and 0.25-18 months for second eyes. Where there was a perceiv
ed threat to independent living or employment the WLT was found to be signi
ficantly shorter than the median. A high overall score correlated with a sh
orter WLT. Surgical priority was also given to individuals with anisometrop
ia >3 dioptres.
Conclusion-This study has demonstrated that there are specific factors that
influence clinicians when prioritising patients for cataract surgery.