Can a Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Affect the Outcome of Cataract Surgery?
June 7, 2010
I had a branch retinal vein occlusion many years ago without any complications. I am going in for removal of a cataract and wanted to know if this condition will have an effect on the outcome of removal of the cataract. I asked the doctor (he tries to avoid discussing the operation) and he says I may have edema. What does that mean?
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3 Responses to “Can a Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Affect the Outcome of Cataract Surgery?”
if the cataract is dense, then yes, you will have brighter vision, but if alot of damage to retina, your ability to see letters/faces may not be much improved.
I have branch retinal vein occlusion. Can see light but not much else. Latge car act dur to side effects of unsuccessful steroid I ejection. Removal of the cataract may let in more light, but how will that help vision?
branch vein occlusion can cause edema or ischemia (poor blood flow) to the macula (the part of the retina you use for central vision, like when you look at a face or read). cataract surgery can stir up edema. any ischemia would not be affected by the surgery, but it may limit your vision. you may wish to get a retina evaluation for a better idea of the health of your macula. to minimize the risk of edema, i would advise a pretty long course-2 weeks- of steroid and non-steroidal drops prior to the surgery. to be honest, if the vein occlusion was a long time ago, the chances of edema are pretty slim.
