Ocular dominance, coexistent retinal disease, and refractive errors in patients with cataract surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this article is to highlight some common issues when planning cataract surgery in patients with preexisting ocular pathologies and to assess the role of ocular dominance in cataract surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS: In addition to routine ocular examination, determination of ocular dominance and orthoptic evaluation for tropias, phorias, amblyopia, and diplopia can be helpful in planning for cataract surgery as these factors can affect postoperative outcomes. Although once controversial, cataract surgery by phacoemulsification is often a well tolerated and effective option for patients with coexistent retinal conditions including epiretinal membrane, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and macular holes.

SUMMARY: It is mandatory to recognize phorias, tropias, anisometropia, and amblyopia when planning cataract surgery. Visual potential, ocular dominance, refractive errors, and other retinal comorbidities influence cataract surgery planning and outcome.