Prevalence of corneal astigmatism in patients undergoing cataract surgery in India

TL;DR

This study found that nearly 90% of cataract surgery patients in India have corneal astigmatism, emphasizing the need for preoperative assessment to improve visual outcomes.

Contribution

The study provides updated data on the prevalence and types of corneal astigmatism in cataract surgery candidates in India.

Findings

Corneal astigmatism was present in 89.4% of patients.

68.1% of patients had clinically significant astigmatism (≥1.0 D).

With-the-rule astigmatism was the most common type observed.

Abstract

Corneal astigmatism is common among patients presenting for cataract surgery. Hence, understanding its pattern is essential for
optimal surgical planning and visual outcomes. This study investigated the prevalence, type, and severity of corneal astigmatism in
320 cataract surgery candidates aged 40 years and above at RIO, RIMS, Ranchi, India. Automated keratometry and corneal topography were
used to classify astigmatism by orientation and magnitude. Corneal astigmatism was present in 89.4% of patients, with 68.1% showing
clinically significant levels (≥1.0 D), most commonly with-the-rule astigmatism, followed by against-the-rule and oblique types. These
findings highlight the importance of thorough preoperative astigmatism assessment and appropriate corrective planning to ensure optimal
postoperative visual outcomes.