Simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery – advantages and disadvantages

During the past decade, advances in techniques and technology led to major changes in cataract surgical practice patterns. In

this progression towards ever faster eye rehabilitation after surgery, simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery (SBCS) may be the

next and ultimate step. It is not routinely performed: however, there are certain situations in which SBCS might be beneficial

to the patients. It has been considered a good option in patients who have significant cataract in both eyes and are not good

candidates for having anesthesia and surgery twice.

The question is, if the benefits by bilateral surgery justify the risk of simultaneous complications, in particular endophthalmitis. In

this perspective we present the clinical, social and economic advantages and disadvantages of such surgical procedures.