Impact of Nd: YAG capsulotomy on quality of life in pseudophakic patients

Abstract Objective To determine whether visual acuity (VA) improvement in patients with posterior capsule opacification (PCO), accepted after the capsulotomy, is followed by positive changes in the perception of their quality of life. Method A total of 130 patients with PCO were examined before and after capsulotomy. In addition to the ophthalmic examination, the EuroQol questionnaire was completed. We analyzed the influence of demographic characteristics on the outcome of the test. Results The mean binocular visual acuity (BVA) and the mean scores in the EuroQol dimensions and EQ-VAS improved significantly after capsulotomy. VA did not have the same effect on daily common tasks. After treatment, the problems in the usual activities dimension have seen the largest reduction. Mobility is still the dimension with more problems regarding patients after capsulotomy. Conclusions Decreased VA induced by PCO is associated with difficulties performing daily living activities. Capsulotomy results in a gain in VA and functional ability of the majority of patients, improving the perception of their quality of life.